Kansas City Marketing Legends Thu, 13 Aug 2026 01:24:39 -0400 https://www.kcmarketinglegends.com en-us © 2026 Kansas City Marketing Legends yes Kansas City, MO, USA c366ac1a-9b1a-5289-9137-91df268fceee Sam Meers and Mike Swenson episodic false The marketing business is like an iceberg. What the public experiences in a :30 second spot on television or online is the tip of the iceberg. So too is the piece of positive publicity about a company or product that someone reads or the piece of persuasive content that lands in their computer or phone. All just the tip of the iceberg.

What’s below the proverbial tip is what this podcast is all about. It’s about the people behind the ideas and the effort that it takes to conceive and produce them.  And it’s about all the blood, sweat, and tears these folks gave and the fun and laughter they had while doing it. Most important, the stories we will tell all happened right here in Kansas City.

Our idea is simple. Let’s reach out to all the people who made the Kansas City marketing community what it is today. What we are today is a city of creative powerhouses of all sizes doing work not just across the metro or region, but across the nation and the world.

Welcome to the Kansas City Marketing Legends Podcast!

Brought To You By — evolution Audio Post Production // Springboard Creative // KC Ad Club // PRSA of Kansas City

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Advertising, Marketing, Public Relations Sam Meers and Mike Swenson https://storage.buzzsprout.com/9fz5yn5a1pfpu9rcom12o9gb7nj4?.jpg Kansas City Marketing Legends https://www.kcmarketinglegends.com Mike Swenson Sam Meers Skip Quimby // Co-Founder, Wysong, Quimby & Jones Skip Quimby // Co-Founder, Wysong, Quimby & Jones If you've lived in Kansas City long enough, you've heard Skip Quimby, you just might not have known it was him. As a co-founder of Wysong, Quimby & Jones, Skip helped make radio advertising an art form in this market, lending his voice and his wit to spots that people still remember decades later. But behind the craft was a serious business philosophy — be interesting, tell the truth, and sell more instead of cutting overhead. In this episode, Skip sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about the golden age of broadcast creative, what ego does to good ideas, and the principles that held up across every era of this business.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> If you've lived in Kansas City long enough, you've heard Skip Quimby, you just might not have known it was him. As a co-founder of Wysong, Quimby & Jones, Skip helped make radio advertising an art form in this market, lending his voice and his wit to spots that people still remember decades later. But behind the craft was a serious business philosophy — be interesting, tell the truth, and sell more instead of cutting overhead. In this episode, Skip sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about the golden age of broadcast creative, what ego does to good ideas, and the principles that held up across every era of this business.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-19459025 Wed, 12 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0500 4589 3 10 full false Pat O'Neill // Founder, O'Neill Communications | KC Irish Fest Co-Founder Pat O'Neill // Founder, O'Neill Communications | KC Irish Fest Co-Founder Pat O'Neill didn't take the obvious path to running a KC communications firm. He took the scenic route through cemetery caretaking, late-night concert reviews, limo runs for touring rock bands, and tiny Colorado newspapers before coming back to Kansas City and building something uniquely his own. Four generations of the O'Neill family have been woven into this city's political, cultural, and civic fabric since the 1880s, and Pat's chapter, the micro-agency that never wanted to be the biggest, just the best, may be the most colorful of all. In this episode, Pat sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about speed, trust, Irish Fest, and why the best business development in KC has always happened at five o'clock at the bar.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Pat O'Neill didn't take the obvious path to running a KC communications firm. He took the scenic route through cemetery caretaking, late-night concert reviews, limo runs for touring rock bands, and tiny Colorado newspapers before coming back to Kansas City and building something uniquely his own. Four generations of the O'Neill family have been woven into this city's political, cultural, and civic fabric since the 1880s, and Pat's chapter, the micro-agency that never wanted to be the biggest, just the best, may be the most colorful of all. In this episode, Pat sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about speed, trust, Irish Fest, and why the best business development in KC has always happened at five o'clock at the bar.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-19312341 Wed, 29 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0500 3665 3 9 full false Ronda Zillner // Founder, Zillner Marketing Ronda Zillner // Founder, Zillner Marketing Ronda Zillner saw the senior living opportunity before most people were paying attention and built Zillner Marketing into a powerhouse by combining sharp data instincts with a deep understanding of how boomers would redefine aging. But getting there was anything but a straight line. From Illinois Bell to a dental hygiene detour, through the Valentine Radford years and a day-before-Thanksgiving leap into her own firm, Ronda built a business, and a life, entirely on her own terms. In this episode, she sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about grit, smart specialization, and what it really means to build a career with both purpose and staying power.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Ronda Zillner saw the senior living opportunity before most people were paying attention and built Zillner Marketing into a powerhouse by combining sharp data instincts with a deep understanding of how boomers would redefine aging. But getting there was anything but a straight line. From Illinois Bell to a dental hygiene detour, through the Valentine Radford years and a day-before-Thanksgiving leap into her own firm, Ronda built a business, and a life, entirely on her own terms. In this episode, she sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about grit, smart specialization, and what it really means to build a career with both purpose and staying power.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-19312319 Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0500 4379 3 8 full false Susan Spaulding // Founder, Market Directions | Author, Recalibrate Series Susan Spaulding // Founder, Market Directions | Author, Recalibrate Series Susan Spaulding built a career on a simple but powerful idea: that understanding people deeply is the most strategic thing a marketer can do. Starting in journalism and working her way through the agency world, she became Valentine Radford's de facto research engine before spinning Market Directions into its own firm. It was complete with a 60-station phone center and a client list that stretched well beyond Kansas City. Along the way she helped brands stop guessing and start knowing, turning data into decisions that moved the needle. In this episode, Susan sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about organized curiosity, what it takes to build a discipline from scratch, and why the best creative work always starts with listening.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Susan Spaulding built a career on a simple but powerful idea: that understanding people deeply is the most strategic thing a marketer can do. Starting in journalism and working her way through the agency world, she became Valentine Radford's de facto research engine before spinning Market Directions into its own firm. It was complete with a 60-station phone center and a client list that stretched well beyond Kansas City. Along the way she helped brands stop guessing and start knowing, turning data into decisions that moved the needle. In this episode, Susan sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about organized curiosity, what it takes to build a discipline from scratch, and why the best creative work always starts with listening.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-19134402 Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0500 3984 3 7 full false Steve Doyal // VP Communications (Retired) | Hallmark Cards & Crown Center Steve Doyal // VP Communications (Retired) | Hallmark Cards & Crown Center Steve Doyal didn't set out to become one of Kansas City's most trusted corporate voices, but Hallmark has a way of finding the right people. After serving his country and a few early career stops, Steve landed at Hallmark and never looked back, spending decades as the company's communications compass through milestones, celebrations, and even tragedy. Along the way he helped transform Crown Center from an overlooked destination into the heartbeat of downtown KC. In this episode, Steve sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about the Hallmark way, what radical hospitality looks like in practice, and why integrity, in business and in life, never goes out of style.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Steve Doyal didn't set out to become one of Kansas City's most trusted corporate voices, but Hallmark has a way of finding the right people. After serving his country and a few early career stops, Steve landed at Hallmark and never looked back, spending decades as the company's communications compass through milestones, celebrations, and even tragedy. Along the way he helped transform Crown Center from an overlooked destination into the heartbeat of downtown KC. In this episode, Steve sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about the Hallmark way, what radical hospitality looks like in practice, and why integrity, in business and in life, never goes out of style.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-19134384 Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0500 3383 3 6 full false Doug Ballou // Marketing Strategist | F/M/A, Yellow Freight, Blue Window Doug Ballou // Marketing Strategist | F/M/A, Yellow Freight, Blue Window Doug Ballou calls it "marketing chess.” And after 50 years of playing it, he's earned the title of a grand master. From employee #31 at F/M/A to building Yellow Freight's marketing operation from the ground up, to the iconic strategy behind "Pork. The Other White Meat,” Doug has worked every side of this business with a rigor that's rare. But perhaps his most meaningful work came last, applying those same IMC tools to behavioral health and public service through Blue Window and GRACE. In this episode, Doug sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about the full board: strategy, integration, mentorship, and what happens when marketing gets used for something bigger than a campaign.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Doug Ballou calls it "marketing chess.” And after 50 years of playing it, he's earned the title of a grand master. From employee #31 at F/M/A to building Yellow Freight's marketing operation from the ground up, to the iconic strategy behind "Pork. The Other White Meat,” Doug has worked every side of this business with a rigor that's rare. But perhaps his most meaningful work came last, applying those same IMC tools to behavioral health and public service through Blue Window and GRACE. In this episode, Doug sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about the full board: strategy, integration, mentorship, and what happens when marketing gets used for something bigger than a campaign.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-18994298 Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0500 4351 3 5 full false Eric Morgenstern // Founder, Morningstar Communications | Fractional CCO Eric Morgenstern // Founder, Morningstar Communications | Fractional CCO Eric Morgenstern was doing integrated marketing before the industry had a name for it. Splitting his days between ad accounts and PR accounts at Brewer, serving as Hallmark's national spokesperson, then founding Morningstar Communications, Eric has always operated at the intersection of strategy, storytelling, and people. He's also done it with his wife and business partner Shanny by his side for nearly three decades. It’s a partnership playbook that's as practical as it is rare. In this episode, Eric sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about building a firm, leading with ethics, and the principles that hold up across every era of this business.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Eric Morgenstern was doing integrated marketing before the industry had a name for it. Splitting his days between ad accounts and PR accounts at Brewer, serving as Hallmark's national spokesperson, then founding Morningstar Communications, Eric has always operated at the intersection of strategy, storytelling, and people. He's also done it with his wife and business partner Shanny by his side for nearly three decades. It’s a partnership playbook that's as practical as it is rare. In this episode, Eric sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about building a firm, leading with ethics, and the principles that hold up across every era of this business.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-18994282 Wed, 20 May 2026 00:00:00 -0500 3355 3 4 full false Jack Schmid // Direct Marketing Pioneer | Founder, J. Schmid & Associates Jack Schmid // Direct Marketing Pioneer | Founder, J. Schmid & Associates In this episode of Kansas City Marketing Legends, we sit down with Jack Schmid, a true pioneer who helped put Kansas City on the direct marketing map. From his early days at Fingerhut to launching the Halls catalog at Hallmark and eventually building his own agency, J Schmid & Associates, Jack has lived the full evolution of the industry from punch card databases and printed catalogs to the internet age and AI. He shares the story behind landing Marks & Spencer as a client (spoiler: it involved Harry Truman.) Jack tells us why the fundamentals of direct marketing — the right list, the right offer, the right creative — never go out of style, and what he’s still learning at 90. This one’s packed with wisdom, great stories, and lessons every marketer needs to hear.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> In this episode of Kansas City Marketing Legends, we sit down with Jack Schmid, a true pioneer who helped put Kansas City on the direct marketing map. From his early days at Fingerhut to launching the Halls catalog at Hallmark and eventually building his own agency, J Schmid & Associates, Jack has lived the full evolution of the industry from punch card databases and printed catalogs to the internet age and AI. He shares the story behind landing Marks & Spencer as a client (spoiler: it involved Harry Truman.) Jack tells us why the fundamentals of direct marketing — the right list, the right offer, the right creative — never go out of style, and what he’s still learning at 90. This one’s packed with wisdom, great stories, and lessons every marketer needs to hear.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-18957429 Wed, 06 May 2026 00:00:00 -0500 3922 3 3 full false Brian Brooker // Creative Leader | GSD&M, Barkley, Bernstein-Rein, Garmin Brian Brooker // Creative Leader | GSD&M, Barkley, Bernstein-Rein, Garmin Brian Brooker didn't just write ads. He wrote campaigns that ran for years and years, helped Southwest Airlines find its voice under the legendary Herb Kelleher, and built a 100-person creative org as CCO of Garmin. From his early days at Bernstein-Rein and Barkley & Evergreen in KC to his move to GSD&M in Austin, Brian brought a deceptively simple philosophy to every room he walked into. He brought back his learnings in Austin to Barkley and helped create the memorable Two Guys campaign for Sonic. In this episode, he sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about the work, the craft, and the principles that guided it all: keep it simple, take the side door, and never forget that everything matters.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Brian Brooker didn't just write ads. He wrote campaigns that ran for years and years, helped Southwest Airlines find its voice under the legendary Herb Kelleher, and built a 100-person creative org as CCO of Garmin. From his early days at Bernstein-Rein and Barkley & Evergreen in KC to his move to GSD&M in Austin, Brian brought a deceptively simple philosophy to every room he walked into. He brought back his learnings in Austin to Barkley and helped create the memorable Two Guys campaign for Sonic. In this episode, he sits down with Sam and Mike to talk about the work, the craft, and the principles that guided it all: keep it simple, take the side door, and never forget that everything matters.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-18957412 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0500 3372 3 2 full false Season Two Wrapped. Time for Season Three! Season Two Wrapped. Time for Season Three! Season Three of KC Marketing Legends kicks off the way every good conversation should, by looking back before looking forward. Sam and Mike reunite to dig into the common threads that ran through Season Two: the mentors who shaped careers, the principles that held up across decades, and the moments that proved great marketing is as much about character as craft. Then they turn the page to what's ahead. Another class of legends with stories that are just as rich, just as honest, and just as KC. 

None of it happens without the people who make this show possible: Evolution Audio, Springboard Creative, Media Head, Extra Virgin, the Kansas City Ad Club, and Greater Kansas City PRSA. Pull up a chair. Season Three is just getting started.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Season Three of KC Marketing Legends kicks off the way every good conversation should, by looking back before looking forward. Sam and Mike reunite to dig into the common threads that ran through Season Two: the mentors who shaped careers, the principles that held up across decades, and the moments that proved great marketing is as much about character as craft. Then they turn the page to what's ahead. Another class of legends with stories that are just as rich, just as honest, and just as KC. 

None of it happens without the people who make this show possible: Evolution Audio, Springboard Creative, Media Head, Extra Virgin, the Kansas City Ad Club, and Greater Kansas City PRSA. Pull up a chair. Season Three is just getting started.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-18957401 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0500 2577 3 1 full false Pete Kovac // NKH&W Pete Kovac // NKH&W Pete Kovac is an absolute legend in the advertising world and a founding partner of the iconic agency NKH&W. Pete’s been part of the Kansas City marketing scene for decades, with a career that stretches from working on the client side, to running major agencies, to co-founding one of the most successful shops in town.

He’s going to share his take on how the ad industry has evolved, what it really takes to build client relationships that last, and the lessons he’s picked up while mentoring some of the best talent to come through his doors—including Sam, by the way. And if we’re lucky, we might even get a story or two about his ranch out in the Flint Hills.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Pete Kovac is an absolute legend in the advertising world and a founding partner of the iconic agency NKH&W. Pete’s been part of the Kansas City marketing scene for decades, with a career that stretches from working on the client side, to running major agencies, to co-founding one of the most successful shops in town.

He’s going to share his take on how the ad industry has evolved, what it really takes to build client relationships that last, and the lessons he’s picked up while mentoring some of the best talent to come through his doors—including Sam, by the way. And if we’re lucky, we might even get a story or two about his ranch out in the Flint Hills.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-17783549 Wed, 15 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0500 3113 2 13 full false Jim Glynn // Glynn Devins Jim Glynn // Glynn Devins Up next is Jim Glynn, the co-founder of the legendary senior living agency Glynn Devins. Jim and his partner George Devins started from scratch and built one of the most respected firms in the senior living space.

Jim’s story is a great ride. He takes us back to his early days doing promotions at Worlds of Fun, where he first caught the advertising bug, then to his move to John Knox Village—what would eventually become their very first client. Along the way, he shares what it takes to build a strong agency culture, attract top talent, and even steer a business through challenges like the 2008 recession. But at the heart of it all is Jim’s passion for making life better for seniors.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Up next is Jim Glynn, the co-founder of the legendary senior living agency Glynn Devins. Jim and his partner George Devins started from scratch and built one of the most respected firms in the senior living space.

Jim’s story is a great ride. He takes us back to his early days doing promotions at Worlds of Fun, where he first caught the advertising bug, then to his move to John Knox Village—what would eventually become their very first client. Along the way, he shares what it takes to build a strong agency culture, attract top talent, and even steer a business through challenges like the 2008 recession. But at the heart of it all is Jim’s passion for making life better for seniors.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Buzzsprout-17783583 Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0500 3270 2 12 full false David Westbrook // Corporate Communications Group David Westbrook // Corporate Communications Group David Westbrook has shaped Kansas City’s marketing and communications world in a big way. He’s the founder of Corporate Communications Group, and his story is incredible. From navigating challenges as a blind student to building a powerhouse PR firm and stepping into community leadership, David has done it all.

You’ll hear him share some amazing stories—like leading the national awareness campaign for NPR, something near and dear to our hearts, and helping shape the brand and reputation of the Shawnee Mission School District and so many other meaningful campaigns over the years. David’s journey is proof of what happens when perseverance, creativity, and purpose all come together.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> David Westbrook has shaped Kansas City’s marketing and communications world in a big way. He’s the founder of Corporate Communications Group, and his story is incredible. From navigating challenges as a blind student to building a powerhouse PR firm and stepping into community leadership, David has done it all.

You’ll hear him share some amazing stories—like leading the national awareness campaign for NPR, something near and dear to our hearts, and helping shape the brand and reputation of the Shawnee Mission School District and so many other meaningful campaigns over the years. David’s journey is proof of what happens when perseverance, creativity, and purpose all come together.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Buzzsprout-17783562 Wed, 17 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0500 3247 2 11 full false Harry Campbell // Sprint/Embarq Harry Campbell // Sprint/Embarq Harry Campbell’s name comes up a lot when you talk about marketing in Kansas City — and for good reason. He’s had a standout career that’s taken him from Procter & Gamble to Sprint, with several entrepreneurial ventures in between. Whether it was leading big-time sponsorships or driving growth as a general manager, Harry has made a lasting impact. His mix of versatility, business savvy, and genuine passion for marketing has earned him deep respect in the industry.

In today’s conversation, we get into Harry’s backstory — how those early days at P&G shaped a marketing-first mindset that stuck with him through every chapter. He’ll share lessons learned from iconic leaders like Dan Hesse and explain how his approach to leadership and team building helped him navigate challenges and come out stronger.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Harry Campbell’s name comes up a lot when you talk about marketing in Kansas City — and for good reason. He’s had a standout career that’s taken him from Procter & Gamble to Sprint, with several entrepreneurial ventures in between. Whether it was leading big-time sponsorships or driving growth as a general manager, Harry has made a lasting impact. His mix of versatility, business savvy, and genuine passion for marketing has earned him deep respect in the industry.

In today’s conversation, we get into Harry’s backstory — how those early days at P&G shaped a marketing-first mindset that stuck with him through every chapter. He’ll share lessons learned from iconic leaders like Dan Hesse and explain how his approach to leadership and team building helped him navigate challenges and come out stronger.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-17624266 Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0500 3486 2 10 full false Nick Vedros // Vedros Photography Nick Vedros // Vedros Photography Nick Vedros is a true legend in visual storytelling. Nick’s photography has taken him all over the world, from right here in Kansas City to big stages with some of the biggest brands, top publications, and creative agencies out there. Whether he’s shooting a high-energy ad campaign, an intimate portrait, or capturing the soul of a place, Nick’s sharp eye and fresh perspective have made him one of the most in-demand photographers around.

But Nick’s story is about way more than just stunning photos. He fell in love with photography when he was just 12 years old, and since then, he’s navigated the twists and turns of the creative world with passion and a relentless drive to learn. In our conversation we dig into his creative process, the lessons he’s picked up along the way, and the challenges he’s overcome. Plus, we’ll chat about how Kansas City has shaped his work and the vibrant creative community here.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Nick Vedros is a true legend in visual storytelling. Nick’s photography has taken him all over the world, from right here in Kansas City to big stages with some of the biggest brands, top publications, and creative agencies out there. Whether he’s shooting a high-energy ad campaign, an intimate portrait, or capturing the soul of a place, Nick’s sharp eye and fresh perspective have made him one of the most in-demand photographers around.

But Nick’s story is about way more than just stunning photos. He fell in love with photography when he was just 12 years old, and since then, he’s navigated the twists and turns of the creative world with passion and a relentless drive to learn. In our conversation we dig into his creative process, the lessons he’s picked up along the way, and the challenges he’s overcome. Plus, we’ll chat about how Kansas City has shaped his work and the vibrant creative community here.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-17624254 Wed, 20 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0500 4209 2 9 full false Matt Anthony // VML Matt Anthony // VML If you’ve listened to this podcast before, chances are you’ve already heard his name. Matt Anthony isn’t just a Kansas City advertising legend — he’s one of the foundational forces behind it. Trace almost any thread through the local marketing community, and sooner or later, it leads straight to him.

Over the years, Matt built a career full of milestones — culminating in his leadership of VML, which has grown into not just Kansas City’s largest agency, but the largest agency in the world. But his journey didn’t stop there.

When his time in advertising began to wind down, Matt turned a personal promise to his late brother into a powerful nonprofit that’s making a real impact. Today, he joins us to reflect on the path, the purpose, and the stories he and Sam share from their time in the trenches together.

This episode is packed with heart, insight, and a rare glimpse into a legacy that helped shape an entire industry.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> If you’ve listened to this podcast before, chances are you’ve already heard his name. Matt Anthony isn’t just a Kansas City advertising legend — he’s one of the foundational forces behind it. Trace almost any thread through the local marketing community, and sooner or later, it leads straight to him.

Over the years, Matt built a career full of milestones — culminating in his leadership of VML, which has grown into not just Kansas City’s largest agency, but the largest agency in the world. But his journey didn’t stop there.

When his time in advertising began to wind down, Matt turned a personal promise to his late brother into a powerful nonprofit that’s making a real impact. Today, he joins us to reflect on the path, the purpose, and the stories he and Sam share from their time in the trenches together.

This episode is packed with heart, insight, and a rare glimpse into a legacy that helped shape an entire industry.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-17502122 Wed, 06 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0500 4222 2 8 full false Deb Turpin // River City Studio Deb Turpin // River City Studio Deb Turpin didn’t just ride the waves of change in the design world — she helped shape them.

Back in 1985, Deb co-founded River City Studio and built it from the ground up into one of Kansas City’s most admired creative agencies. For 25 years, she led with guts and vision — guiding her team through industry changes, from the dawn of desktop publishing to the digital and social media boom.

In this episode, Deb pulls back the curtain on what it really took to build a business that lasted — and mattered. She shares the highs, the hard lessons, and how River City became known not just for killer design, but for a rock-solid culture and a fierce commitment to the community.

If you’re an entrepreneur, creative, or just someone who loves a good story about building something meaningful — you don’t want to miss this episode of KC Marketing Legends.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Deb Turpin didn’t just ride the waves of change in the design world — she helped shape them.

Back in 1985, Deb co-founded River City Studio and built it from the ground up into one of Kansas City’s most admired creative agencies. For 25 years, she led with guts and vision — guiding her team through industry changes, from the dawn of desktop publishing to the digital and social media boom.

In this episode, Deb pulls back the curtain on what it really took to build a business that lasted — and mattered. She shares the highs, the hard lessons, and how River City became known not just for killer design, but for a rock-solid culture and a fierce commitment to the community.

If you’re an entrepreneur, creative, or just someone who loves a good story about building something meaningful — you don’t want to miss this episode of KC Marketing Legends.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-17502098 Wed, 23 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0500 3759 2 7 full false Mike Goff // Sprint Mike Goff // Sprint Mike Goff is someone who’s left a lasting mark not just on Kansas City, but on the national and global stage. Mike’s career spans the agency world, the corporate world, and now the fast-growing space of fractional CMO services. He’s worked with some of the most iconic names in business and culture — Hallmark, the NFL, even the Rolling Stones — and played a key role in bringing the Sprint Center to life in the heart of downtown KC.

What makes Mike stand out is his relentless curiosity, his gift for building high-performing teams, and his ability to connect marketing to the bigger business picture. His career is packed with insights — a real roadmap for any marketer looking to grow and lead. And on top of all that, he’s simply one of the kindest people you’ll meet. 

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Mike Goff is someone who’s left a lasting mark not just on Kansas City, but on the national and global stage. Mike’s career spans the agency world, the corporate world, and now the fast-growing space of fractional CMO services. He’s worked with some of the most iconic names in business and culture — Hallmark, the NFL, even the Rolling Stones — and played a key role in bringing the Sprint Center to life in the heart of downtown KC.

What makes Mike stand out is his relentless curiosity, his gift for building high-performing teams, and his ability to connect marketing to the bigger business picture. His career is packed with insights — a real roadmap for any marketer looking to grow and lead. And on top of all that, he’s simply one of the kindest people you’ll meet. 

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-17315437 Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0500 3399 2 6 full false Joe Greene // American Century/Bernstein-Rein Joe Greene // American Century/Bernstein-Rein Joe Greene is a true marketing heavyweight whose career spans both the client and agency worlds. From launching groundbreaking mortgage campaigns at Dreyfus to helping American Express dig out of a $300 million-hole, Joe has been at the center of some of marketing’s biggest challenges and boldest transformations. And when he landed in Kansas City, he brought that same vision and precision to American Century Investments, where he built out powerful, data-driven strategies.

What sets Joe apart is his rare ability to merge analytical precision with creative thinking — always with the customer front and center. Joe was a pioneer and early champion of data-driven marketing. He will talk about what it takes to lead lasting change in large organizations, and the lessons he's learned crossing the bridge between agency life and corporate leadership.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Joe Greene is a true marketing heavyweight whose career spans both the client and agency worlds. From launching groundbreaking mortgage campaigns at Dreyfus to helping American Express dig out of a $300 million-hole, Joe has been at the center of some of marketing’s biggest challenges and boldest transformations. And when he landed in Kansas City, he brought that same vision and precision to American Century Investments, where he built out powerful, data-driven strategies.

What sets Joe apart is his rare ability to merge analytical precision with creative thinking — always with the customer front and center. Joe was a pioneer and early champion of data-driven marketing. He will talk about what it takes to lead lasting change in large organizations, and the lessons he's learned crossing the bridge between agency life and corporate leadership.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-17315419 Wed, 25 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0500 3410 2 5 full false Siobhan Lesley // Valentine Radford/Walz Tetrick Siobhan Lesley // Valentine Radford/Walz Tetrick Today, we’ll hear the inspiring journey of Siobhan Lesley — one of the forces behind the success of Valentine Radford, one of Kansas City’s legendary agencies, where she rose all the way to President. Siobhan’s story is rooted in leadership, purpose, and a deep passion for people. We’ll dive into her work on iconic accounts like Pizza Hut, and how that path eventually led her to another great KC agency — Walz Tetrick — followed by her move to Gilda’s Club, a lifeline for those impacted by cancer. And if you’ve ever wondered whether this wild industry is the right fit for you, stick around — Siobhan shares a piece of advice that just might help you figure it out.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Today, we’ll hear the inspiring journey of Siobhan Lesley — one of the forces behind the success of Valentine Radford, one of Kansas City’s legendary agencies, where she rose all the way to President. Siobhan’s story is rooted in leadership, purpose, and a deep passion for people. We’ll dive into her work on iconic accounts like Pizza Hut, and how that path eventually led her to another great KC agency — Walz Tetrick — followed by her move to Gilda’s Club, a lifeline for those impacted by cancer. And if you’ve ever wondered whether this wild industry is the right fit for you, stick around — Siobhan shares a piece of advice that just might help you figure it out.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-17203849 Wed, 11 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0500 3221 2 4 full false Al Eidson // Eidson & Partners Al Eidson // Eidson & Partners From the cockpit to the boardroom, Al Eidson’s career is a masterclass in leadership and reinvention. He started out flying C-141 cargo planes across the Pacific in the Air Force, then moved into the corporate world at Procter & Gamble, helping launch new products. Eventually, he brought it all together — co-founding agencies like Eidson Spear and Eidson & Partners, where he blended his military mindset with a sharp eye for business. In our conversation, Al talks about how his time in the Air Force shaped the way he leads, solves problems, and builds teams.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> From the cockpit to the boardroom, Al Eidson’s career is a masterclass in leadership and reinvention. He started out flying C-141 cargo planes across the Pacific in the Air Force, then moved into the corporate world at Procter & Gamble, helping launch new products. Eventually, he brought it all together — co-founding agencies like Eidson Spear and Eidson & Partners, where he blended his military mindset with a sharp eye for business. In our conversation, Al talks about how his time in the Air Force shaped the way he leads, solves problems, and builds teams.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-17203819 Wed, 28 May 2025 00:00:00 -0500 3653 2 3 full false Ann Willoughby // Willoughby Design Ann Willoughby // Willoughby Design Season Two kicks off with the trailblazing Ann Willoughby, founder of Willoughby Design. Her story begins in the aisles of a small department store in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where she sketched fashion illustrations that would mark the start of a remarkable career. 

After relocating to Kansas City, Ann didn’t just launch a design firm—she built a creative powerhouse and became a pioneer for women entrepreneurs in an era when even opening a bank account required a male co-signer. In this episode, Ann reflects on the uphill climb of securing clients, building a business against the odds, and the deeper purpose at the heart of design.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Season Two kicks off with the trailblazing Ann Willoughby, founder of Willoughby Design. Her story begins in the aisles of a small department store in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where she sketched fashion illustrations that would mark the start of a remarkable career. 

After relocating to Kansas City, Ann didn’t just launch a design firm—she built a creative powerhouse and became a pioneer for women entrepreneurs in an era when even opening a bank account required a male co-signer. In this episode, Ann reflects on the uphill climb of securing clients, building a business against the odds, and the deeper purpose at the heart of design.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-17072525 Wed, 14 May 2025 00:00:00 -0500 2967 2 2 full false Welcome to Kansas City Marketing Legends Season 2 Welcome to Kansas City Marketing Legends Season 2 Welcome to Season Two of Kansas City Marketing Legends!

After the incredible energy and inspiring conversations of Season One, we knew we had to come back for more. This season, we’re diving even deeper into the stories and insights of the people who have helped make Kansas City a marketing powerhouse.

A special shoutout to our friends at Evolution Audio — we’re thrilled to have recorded every episode live in their studios. Big thanks as well to Springboard Creative for making us look sharp, and to our other amazing sponsors, the Kansas City Ad Club and Greater Kansas City PRSA, for their continued support. So sit back and listen to the people who made the marketing magic happen in Kansas City.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Welcome to Season Two of Kansas City Marketing Legends!

After the incredible energy and inspiring conversations of Season One, we knew we had to come back for more. This season, we’re diving even deeper into the stories and insights of the people who have helped make Kansas City a marketing powerhouse.

A special shoutout to our friends at Evolution Audio — we’re thrilled to have recorded every episode live in their studios. Big thanks as well to Springboard Creative for making us look sharp, and to our other amazing sponsors, the Kansas City Ad Club and Greater Kansas City PRSA, for their continued support. So sit back and listen to the people who made the marketing magic happen in Kansas City.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-17047312 Sat, 26 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0500 2197 2 1 full false Season 1 // It's a Wrap Season 1 // It's a Wrap As they say, it's a wrap! Season One of Kansas City Marketing Legends is in the books. We are extremely grateful to all of you who have listened to our conversations with the legends of Season One and look forward to offering up more legends when we launch Season Two in early 2025.

This final episode of our first season gives us a chance to remember some of the high points of our first season and provide you with a glimpse of a few of our Season Two legends. 

As always, a loud shout out to our sponsors, evolution Audio, Springboard Creative, The Kansas City Ad Club and Greater KC PRSA. And a big thanks to all of you who are enjoying our podcast. Enjoy this final episode of Season One of the Kansas City Marketing Legends!

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> As they say, it's a wrap! Season One of Kansas City Marketing Legends is in the books. We are extremely grateful to all of you who have listened to our conversations with the legends of Season One and look forward to offering up more legends when we launch Season Two in early 2025.

This final episode of our first season gives us a chance to remember some of the high points of our first season and provide you with a glimpse of a few of our Season Two legends. 

As always, a loud shout out to our sponsors, evolution Audio, Springboard Creative, The Kansas City Ad Club and Greater KC PRSA. And a big thanks to all of you who are enjoying our podcast. Enjoy this final episode of Season One of the Kansas City Marketing Legends!

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-15885293 Wed, 09 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0500 1887 1 11 full false Becky Blades // Blades & Associates Becky Blades // Blades & Associates Becky Blades is the ultimate startist. Her second book is titled Start More Than You Can Finish. That certainly describes Becky to a tee.

As you will hear into this episode of Kansas City Marketing Legends, Becky not only started a lot of things, but she finished a few as well. And how well she did finish. But as you will hear, after starting her own PR Firm and then deciding to sell it, Becky was only beginning to become a true legend in Kansas City and beyond. 

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Becky Blades is the ultimate startist. Her second book is titled Start More Than You Can Finish. That certainly describes Becky to a tee.

As you will hear into this episode of Kansas City Marketing Legends, Becky not only started a lot of things, but she finished a few as well. And how well she did finish. But as you will hear, after starting her own PR Firm and then deciding to sell it, Becky was only beginning to become a true legend in Kansas City and beyond. 

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-15541117 Wed, 04 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0500 4158 1 10 full false Scott McCormick // VML Scott McCormick // VML So, three ad guys are sitting around in one of their homes one summer talking about how to create a new approach in the marketing business. No this is not the start of a joke. It’s exactly how the world’s largest agency was born right here in Kansas City.

Scott McCormick and his founding partners, John Valentine, and Craig Ligabel, left one firm in Kansas City and started what they hoped would be an early adaptation of a virtual agency with maybe 25 employees and lots of contractors. On this episode of Kansas City Marketing Legends, Scott will tell us why that plan didn’t quite work out the way they envisioned. Instead, that agency, VML, is a global powerhouse that turned Kansas City’s original downtown airport into their world headquarters.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> So, three ad guys are sitting around in one of their homes one summer talking about how to create a new approach in the marketing business. No this is not the start of a joke. It’s exactly how the world’s largest agency was born right here in Kansas City.

Scott McCormick and his founding partners, John Valentine, and Craig Ligabel, left one firm in Kansas City and started what they hoped would be an early adaptation of a virtual agency with maybe 25 employees and lots of contractors. On this episode of Kansas City Marketing Legends, Scott will tell us why that plan didn’t quite work out the way they envisioned. Instead, that agency, VML, is a global powerhouse that turned Kansas City’s original downtown airport into their world headquarters.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-15469184 Wed, 21 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0500 2949 1 9 full false Pasquale Trozzolo // Trozzolo Communications Group Pasquale Trozzolo // Trozzolo Communications Group Pasquale Trozzolo, without a doubt, founded one of our city’s premier agencies. Trozzolo Communications Group is an exemplary example of a family business. It also is a company that has recognized over the years how to grow through smart acquisitions and how to keep the principals of those they acquired to stay involved.

On this episode of Kansas City Marketing Legends, Pasquale will tell us why his experience in the political arena prepared him for his career. Today Pasquale remains Executive Chairman of the agency he founded but has found some time to do a few other things as well these days.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Pasquale Trozzolo, without a doubt, founded one of our city’s premier agencies. Trozzolo Communications Group is an exemplary example of a family business. It also is a company that has recognized over the years how to grow through smart acquisitions and how to keep the principals of those they acquired to stay involved.

On this episode of Kansas City Marketing Legends, Pasquale will tell us why his experience in the political arena prepared him for his career. Today Pasquale remains Executive Chairman of the agency he founded but has found some time to do a few other things as well these days.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-15469172 Wed, 07 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0500 3107 1 8 full false Andy Fletcher // Fletcher/Mayo; Barkley Andy Fletcher // Fletcher/Mayo; Barkley What’s it like to have your dad be your boss? Well, our guest today on Marketing Legends of Kansas City can tell us. Andy Fletcher worked for his dad at Fletcher Mayo and learned a thing or two there about the marketing business, especially in the agriculture arena.

But Andy has stories to tell us as he became in his words, a nomad in the business, gaining experience and then running shops over the years from Kansas City to Atlanta to Lincoln, Nebraska.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> What’s it like to have your dad be your boss? Well, our guest today on Marketing Legends of Kansas City can tell us. Andy Fletcher worked for his dad at Fletcher Mayo and learned a thing or two there about the marketing business, especially in the agriculture arena.

But Andy has stories to tell us as he became in his words, a nomad in the business, gaining experience and then running shops over the years from Kansas City to Atlanta to Lincoln, Nebraska.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-15379088 Wed, 24 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0500 2699 1 7 full false Landa William // LandaJob Landa William // LandaJob Chances are more than a few of you have Landa Williams to thank for a job or for an employee hire in a Kansas City agency or company. And even if you didn’t, you absolutely know a few people who did.

LandaJob is her company’s name, and she will tell us how that came about on this edition of the Marketing Legends of Kansas City. Plus, she might even give us some of those behind-the-scenes stories with everyone’s name protected of course.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Chances are more than a few of you have Landa Williams to thank for a job or for an employee hire in a Kansas City agency or company. And even if you didn’t, you absolutely know a few people who did.

LandaJob is her company’s name, and she will tell us how that came about on this edition of the Marketing Legends of Kansas City. Plus, she might even give us some of those behind-the-scenes stories with everyone’s name protected of course.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-15356241 Wed, 10 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0500 2839 1 6 full false Larry Wheeler // Boasberg Wheeler Larry Wheeler // Boasberg Wheeler There can be no dispute that Ewing Kaufmann is one of the most impactful and influential business leaders in Kansas City history. In this episode of Kansas City Marketing legends, we hear from one of our own legends what it was like to work for Mr. K. at Marion Labs and the business lessons he learned that helped him run his own public relations firm.

Larry Wheeler experienced first-hand the growth of Marion Labs. In fact, he had something to do with that growth as we will hear.  After Marion Labs, Larry will tell us about his switch to the PR agency side and talk about another KC public relations legend, Howard Boasberg.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> There can be no dispute that Ewing Kaufmann is one of the most impactful and influential business leaders in Kansas City history. In this episode of Kansas City Marketing legends, we hear from one of our own legends what it was like to work for Mr. K. at Marion Labs and the business lessons he learned that helped him run his own public relations firm.

Larry Wheeler experienced first-hand the growth of Marion Labs. In fact, he had something to do with that growth as we will hear.  After Marion Labs, Larry will tell us about his switch to the PR agency side and talk about another KC public relations legend, Howard Boasberg.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-15204576 Wed, 26 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0500 3970 1 5 full false Bill Fromm // Barkley Bill Fromm // Barkley Bill Fromm was a born entrepreneur. He ran a dry-cleaning delivery service in college and his dream was to come back to Kansas City and start an advertising agency.

He made that dream come true and opened the doors of his agency on June 1, 1964. Today that agency is Barkley, and it is one of the leading independent agencies in the country. Along the way, he had a few other ideas for companies that he brought to life.

We will hear from Bill how he started the agency and helped launch what became a real estate giant, helped sell some expensive German beer and the story of winning the Sonic Drive-In account – a huge turning point in Barkley’s history.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Bill Fromm was a born entrepreneur. He ran a dry-cleaning delivery service in college and his dream was to come back to Kansas City and start an advertising agency.

He made that dream come true and opened the doors of his agency on June 1, 1964. Today that agency is Barkley, and it is one of the leading independent agencies in the country. Along the way, he had a few other ideas for companies that he brought to life.

We will hear from Bill how he started the agency and helped launch what became a real estate giant, helped sell some expensive German beer and the story of winning the Sonic Drive-In account – a huge turning point in Barkley’s history.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-15204561 Wed, 12 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0500 3520 1 4 full false Whitey Kuhn // Kuhn & Wittenborn Whitey Kuhn // Kuhn & Wittenborn Hallmark is not just one of Kansas City’s most revered companies, but it has also contributed to the overall growth of the creative community in the city. One of the best examples of that is the partnership that developed between Whitey Kuhn and the late Dale Wittenborn. The two met while working at Hallmark and then one day they started talking about creating a creative agency. And Kuhn & Wittenborn — was born.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Hallmark is not just one of Kansas City’s most revered companies, but it has also contributed to the overall growth of the creative community in the city. One of the best examples of that is the partnership that developed between Whitey Kuhn and the late Dale Wittenborn. The two met while working at Hallmark and then one day they started talking about creating a creative agency. And Kuhn & Wittenborn — was born.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-15058716 Wed, 29 May 2024 00:00:00 -0500 3956 1 3 full false Bob Bernstein // Bernstein-Rein Bob Bernstein // Bernstein-Rein Listeners to the Marketing Legends of Kansas City may find it hard to believe that there was a time when a handshake was all that was needed to create a decades long partnership between a global retailer and an ad agency in Kansas City. But that’s one story that our guest today can tell.

Bob Bernstein started his agency in 1964. The handshake he had was with none other than Sam Walton, the founder of Wal-Mart. Bob will also give us the real story of the creation McDonalds’ Happy Meal and why that may not have been the most successful idea Bernstein-Rein had for the company with the Golden Arches.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Listeners to the Marketing Legends of Kansas City may find it hard to believe that there was a time when a handshake was all that was needed to create a decades long partnership between a global retailer and an ad agency in Kansas City. But that’s one story that our guest today can tell.

Bob Bernstein started his agency in 1964. The handshake he had was with none other than Sam Walton, the founder of Wal-Mart. Bob will also give us the real story of the creation McDonalds’ Happy Meal and why that may not have been the most successful idea Bernstein-Rein had for the company with the Golden Arches.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-15058692 Wed, 15 May 2024 00:00:00 -0500 3650 1 2 full false Welcome to Kansas City Marketing Legends Welcome to Kansas City Marketing Legends Kansas City has a rich and colorful history when it comes to our Marketing, Advertising and Public Relations community. We talked for a while about how to start capturing the stories. We quickly decided we did not want to write a book, so we landed on an even better idea – let’s start a podcast!

Our idea is simple. Let’s reach out to all the people who made the Kansas City marketing community what it is today. What we are today is a city of creative powerhouses of all sizes doing work not just across the metro or region, but across the nation and the world.

As we talked about doing this, we realized we have lost some of those folks, but we can find people who can tell their stories for them. And we are blessed to have so many people who put their handprints on our community who have agreed to spend an hour with us and share their part of the bigger story.

No one we speak with will refer to themselves as legendary so we will take it upon ourselves to do it for them. So welcome to the inaugural episode of the Kansas City Marketing Legends.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Kansas City has a rich and colorful history when it comes to our Marketing, Advertising and Public Relations community. We talked for a while about how to start capturing the stories. We quickly decided we did not want to write a book, so we landed on an even better idea – let’s start a podcast!

Our idea is simple. Let’s reach out to all the people who made the Kansas City marketing community what it is today. What we are today is a city of creative powerhouses of all sizes doing work not just across the metro or region, but across the nation and the world.

As we talked about doing this, we realized we have lost some of those folks, but we can find people who can tell their stories for them. And we are blessed to have so many people who put their handprints on our community who have agreed to spend an hour with us and share their part of the bigger story.

No one we speak with will refer to themselves as legendary so we will take it upon ourselves to do it for them. So welcome to the inaugural episode of the Kansas City Marketing Legends.

#kcmarketinglegends

]]> Sam Meers and Mike Swenson Buzzsprout-15019230 Mon, 06 May 2024 13:00:00 -0500 1760 1 1 full false