Phil & Lori Volen discuss the literal building blocks of their business — Phillori Phigures
Ever wondered what happens when passion meets plastic bricks? In Episode 862 of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes Phil and Lori Volen, the creative minds behind Phillori Phigures (see what they did there?).
These downtown Lee's Summit entrepreneurs transformed their pandemic hobby into a thriving business crafting custom, Lego-compatible figures that are captivating collectors everywhere.
But this isn't just another business origin story. Nick dives into the truly important questions that divide the brick-building community: Are you Team Builder, meticulously crafting masterpieces that remain pristinely displayed? Or Team Player, dumping out containers and letting imagination run wild? The Volens share their own brick-building philosophies and how these different approaches influence their unique creations.
Whether you're a dedicated collector or someone who steps on plastic bricks in the middle of the night, this episode explores how a simple toy became a creative business venture creating community, one custom mini-figure at a time.
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34:51
Final Countdown: A last look at the school bond question and four candidates for LSR7 BOE
In this election-focused episode, host Nick Parker and guest Jason Norbury provide a breakdown of the four candidates competing for just two available seats on the Lee's Summit Board of Education. They explore the priorities and perspectives of Michelle Dawson, Jennifer Foley (current board president and lone incumbent), Nikki Nickens, and Leon Weatherby.
The discussion delves into critical issues facing the district, including board-superintendent relations, teacher compensation, public communication strategies, and fiscal management. Each candidate's unique approach to these challenges offers listeners valuable insights into how they might shape the board's future direction.
Whether you're a decided voter or still weighing your options, this episode delivers the information you need to make an informed choice at the polls. Plus, Nick and Jason share how you can access candidate questionnaires at Link2LeesSummit.com and connect directly with candidates to have your specific questions answered.
Don't miss this vital conversation about the future of education in Lee's Summit!
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38:17
Breaking down the $225M bond question: What it means for LSR7 Schools
In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes Lee's Summit R-7 School District Superintendent Dr. David Buck and Associate Superintendent Dr. Steve Shelton to discuss the upcoming $225 million no-tax-increase bond issue on the ballot. They delve into the specifics of the bond, which aims to address capital needs such as building renovations, safety improvements, and infrastructure upgrades within the district. The guests also highlight the importance of community involvement and planning for future growth. Tune in to learn about the critical projects included in the bond and how they will benefit the district.
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35:32
Episode 859: Prioritizing Mental Health with ReDiscover’s Demetrios Walker
In this episode of the Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes Demetrios Walker, Community and Engagement Business Partner at ReDiscover, a nonprofit mental health center dedicated to supporting individuals affected by mental illness and substance use disorders.
Demetrios shares insights into ReDiscover’s commitment to providing accessible and culturally competent mental health services for both youth and adults. He highlights the importance of social and emotional wellness, the role of open dialogue in bridging generational gaps, and the need for action-oriented strategies to turn community conversations into meaningful change.
Nick and Demetrios also discuss ReDiscover’s partnerships with organizations like Prodeo, their mission to ensure community engagement, and the availability of essential mental health resources across the metropolitan area—including their main location at 1555 Northeast Rice Road in Lee’s Summit, Missouri.
Tune in for an important conversation about breaking down barriers, fostering safe spaces, and taking action to support mental health in our community.
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29:32
Get Ready to 'Shamrock the Block!'
In this episode of the Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes back Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street's Julie Cook and Jenny Gale to chat about the second annual Shamrock the Block event! Happening afrom 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, this St. Patrick’s celebration is bigger and better than ever, packed with inflatables, food trucks, live entertainment, and even a bubble party!
Julie and Jenny share their excitement about the event’s growth and all the fun in store for families. Whether you're there for the festivities, the food, or just a little luck of the Irish, this is one event you won’t want to miss! Tune in and get the inside scoop on all things Shamrock the Block!
A weekly podcast conversation, produced by Link 2 Lee's Summit, highlighting local issues and people in Lee's Summit, Missouri. Host Nick Parker and guests discuss pertinent issues and topics concerning local residents and introduce listeners to some of the people who help make Lee's Summit a vibrant community.