’King in the Community’ an Eagle Media Podcast

Mitch Robinson, Salina Community Economic Developement Organization

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King sits down with Mitch Robinson, Executive Director of the Salina Community Economic Development Organization, to talk about the exciting growth and developments happening in Salina and Saline County.
Mitch breaks down:
The new Amazon last-mile distribution center, bringing 100+ jobs to Salina by October 2025
A behind-the-scenes look at Pure Imagination Studios and its future home in the $41 million K-ARIES Center
Expanding career tech education opportunities with K-State Salina
Big housing projects like Aero Plains and Magnolia Commons responding to Salina's housing crunch
Infrastructure upgrades from Evergy and Kansas Gas Service
Mitch also shares that the EDO celebrates its 10-year anniversary this year! Public EDO meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at 9:30 a.m. at the Chamber Annex—just look for the blue awning next to the Visit Salina office.

Pieter Miller, Salina Airport Authority Executive Director

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King sits down with Pieter Miller, Executive Director of the Salina Airport Authority, to discuss the exciting developments taking flight in Salina. From the highly anticipated Amazon last-mile facility to new daily airline routes to Houston, Miller shares how these projects are shaping the future of our growing community.
They also dive into the transformation of the historic Schilling Air Force Base into a bustling economic hub, now home to more than 170 businesses with a $1.3 billion economic impact. Miller highlights the newly established AIM Center of Excellence, which is training the next generation of aviation professionals, and discusses the groundbreaking Textron eAviation Nexus project, bringing air taxis closer to reality.
Plus, get an inside look at the ongoing environmental cleanup efforts to remove pollution from the former military grounds, as well as plans to expand the Salina Airport's capabilities and partnerships.

Clarke Sanders, State Represenative 69th Kansas House District

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King sits down with Rep. Clarke Sanders of Kansas’ 69th District to discuss the Republican supermajority in the state legislature and how it shapes policymaking. Sanders breaks down the numbers behind veto-proof majorities, lessons learned from past legislative sessions, and the key tax reform initiatives being pursued to lower property taxes.
They also dive into water conservation efforts, the future of medical marijuana legalization, and the debate surrounding journalist access at the Kansas Statehouse. Plus, Sanders shares insights on the theater tax exemption bill, immigration policies, and the likelihood of the Kansas City Chiefs or Royals moving to Kansas.
 

Lisa Newman, Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent - K-State Research & Extension - Central Kansas District

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King sits down with Lisa Newman, Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for K-State Research and Extension – Central District. They discuss the impact of KSRE in Saline and Ottawa counties, the importance of public-private partnerships in strengthening community wellness, and the 25th anniversary of Walk Kansas—a statewide eight-week health initiative designed to encourage physical activity and healthy habits.
Lisa shares insights on how Walk Kansas fosters teamwork and motivation, allowing participants to track their activity, set goals, and even involve friends and family across the country. Plus, she highlights an upcoming Babysitting Clinic, designed to equip young people with essential childcare skills and job readiness training.
📅 Walk Kansas registration opens March 4, and the program runs from March 30 – May 24.
🔗 Learn more and sign up:👉 K-State Research and Extension – Central District👉 Walk Kansas
 

Final interview with Salina City Manager Mike Schrage

In this special episode of the King in the Community podcast, Nate King sits down with Mike Schrage for a final conversation before moves to his new role as city manager in Warrensburg, Missouri. Mike reflects on his tenure as Salina's city manager, sharing insights on the challenges he faced, including managing the city's response to COVID-19, navigating budget difficulties, and overseeing significant projects like the Smoky Hill River Revitalization. He also discusses his proudest accomplishments, such as economic development efforts, housing projects, and the city's financial management.
Mike opens up about his plans for the future, his decision to move closer to his wife’s family, and his feelings about Salina’s positive momentum moving forward. 
 

Kat White, Eagle Scout

On this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King sits down with Kat White, the first female in the Triconda District to earn the rank of Eagle Scout. Kat shares her journey in Scouting America, her challenges, and the support that kept her going. She discusses her Eagle Project, a blessing box at the University United Methodist Church, and how it serves the community.
Also joining the conversation is Brendan Tackett, District Executive for the Triconda District, who provides insight into the 115th anniversary of Scouting, including female scouts, and the program's future.
From campouts to leadership development, Kat and Brendan reflect on how Scouting shapes young leaders and why more youth should get involved. Whether you're a past scout, a parent considering the program, or someone who loves a great story about how young people are improving our community, this is the episode for you. 
Want to make a lasting impact on scouts like Kat? Support the Investment in Character and Leadership Campaign today!  Give now with the ICL Donation Form
 

Renee Duxler, Salina Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King talks with Renee Duxler, President and CEO of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, about the Chamber’s 2025 legislative agenda. Renée explains how the Chamber works with local partners to tackle major issues like affordable housing, infrastructure, and workforce development.
They discuss key projects, including upgrades to Magnolia Road, affordable housing developments, the potential for a KU satellite law school in Salina and the rehoming of the KHP Training Academy.
Renee also highlights past successes, like securing funding for housing and other economic development projects. In her words, 'Salina is setting an example for other Kansas communities through collaboration and advocacy.'
Learn more about how the Chamber works to make the Salina area a fun, sustainable and resilient community.
For more information, visit the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce.

Chelsea Wood, Erica Ruiz — Salina Area Technical College Dental Hygiene Clinic

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King discusses the Salina Area Technical College's Dental Hygiene Program with Chelsea Wood, a dental hygiene student, and Erica Ruiz, the dental patient coordinator. The conversation highlights the role of Salina Tech’s Dental Hygiene Clinic in providing affordable oral healthcare while serving as a training ground for future dental hygienists.
The clinic offers professional teeth cleaning with personalized treatment plans, preventative care such as sealants and fluoride treatments, and cosmetic tooth whitening with custom bleach trays. These services are provided under the direct supervision of licensed dental hygienists and dentists, ensuring quality care while addressing the growing demand for dental professionals in the region.
The episode covers key aspects of the program, such as its competitive admissions process, small class sizes, and high job placement rate—over 90% of graduates secure employment before graduation. Wood shares her experience as a parent navigating the program’s demands, while Ruiz provides insight into how the clinic balances student learning with community care.
Listeners will also receive practical details about the clinic at 2562 Centennial Road, Building A, in Salina, Kansas. Appointments, which can take up to three hours, can be made by calling 785-309-3146 or emailing DentalClinic@salinatech.edu. Fees for services include $20 for adult cleanings, $15 for child cleanings, $5 per tooth for sealants, and $20 for whitening services.

Saline County Second District Commissioner, Annie Grevas

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King interviews Saline County Second District Commissioner Annie Grevas about her role on the County Commission.
Grevas discusses her career in community corrections, emphasizing the importance of grants and collaboration in addressing challenges such as homelessness, opioid addiction, and recidivism. Grevas also outlines Saline County's priorities, including the Health Department's future, broadband access, and the use of community resources. The episode provides insight into Grevas' plans and the perspective she hopes to bring to the commission. 

Salina City Manager Mike Schrage

This King in the Community podcast episode features a conversation with Salina City Manager Mike Schrage. Nate and Mike discuss the holiday transformation of downtown Salina, from Christmas tree lighting to the Parade of Lights. The episode also dives into serious community issues, including challenges at the Salina Animal Shelter, ongoing discussions about breed-specific legislation, and efforts to manage overcapacity.
The conversation shifts to city development updates, including the demolition progress at the long-vacant Ambassador Hotel and the upcoming construction of Fire Station #4.