HOW MARION WORKS - CITY OF MARION

Latest Episodes:

SE. 2 EP. 18 | "A VOICE FOR VICTIMS" FT. AMBER EARHART, MPD VICTIMS' ADVOCATE Oct 12, 2026

Show notes

How does our community support and guide individuals through their most difficult moments?

In this episode of How Marion Works, host Layla Price-Bodkin and co-host Lillian Harshaw sit down with Amber Earhart, who serves alongside the Marion Police Department as a Victims’ Advocate. Amber shares powerful insights into how she helps victims navigate complex situations, connects families with essential community resources, and provides unwavering compassion and support when it is needed most.

Tune in for a deeply meaningful conversation and discover another essential piece of how our city serves and protects its residents.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

A Voice for Victims: The vital role of a Victims' Advocate within the police department and justice system.
Navigating the Process: How advocates guide individuals through challenging legal and personal circumstances.
Essential Community Resources: The network of support available to local residents in times of crisis.
Compassion in Action: The personal dedication required to serve as a comforting presence for those in need.

🔗 Connect With Us

Website: HowMarionWorks.com

The "HOW MARION WORKS" podcast is produced by Frequency Canvas, LLC. All Audio Production (Recording, Editing, Mixing, & Mastering) is done by: Kyren Monteiro of Frequency Canvas, LLC.
Podcast theme music & also theme music for Podcast trailer are produced by: Kyren Monteiro of Frequency Canvas, LLC.
Contact Frequency Canvas at: Office@FrequencyCanvas.com | https://www.FrequencyCanvas.com/ | 765-506-3380

SE 2 17 | "TRAINING FOR THE UNEXPECTED: INSIDE THE MARION FIRE DEPARTMENT" FT. BRANDON SATTERTHWAITE Sep 29, 2026

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Ever wonder what actually goes into preparing firefighters for those split-second moments when every second counts?

In this episode of How Marion Works, host Layla Price-Bodkin and co-host Lillian Harshaw sit down with Brandon Satterthwaite, Training Officer with the Marion Fire Department. Brandon takes us behind the scenes to show what rigorous preparation looks like, why continuous training matters, and the incredible dedication required to serve and protect the Marion community.

From real-world emergency scenarios to the mindset needed when the call comes in, get an exclusive look at how our first responders stay ready for anything.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Behind the Hose: What day-to-day firefighter training actually looks like behind the scenes.
The High-Stakes Prep: How officers train to make split-second decisions under pressure.
Service & Sacrifice: The personal drive and commitment needed to serve on the front lines in Marion.
Readiness when the Call Comes: The physical and mental discipline required to protect our city 24/7.

🔗 Connect With Us

Website: HowMarionWorks.com

SE 2 16 | BEHIND THE SCENES WITH CITY OF MARION BUILDING COMMISSIONER JUSTIN DICKERSON Aug 31, 2026

Show notes

How does a city ensure safe construction, continuous development, and sustainable growth for the future?

In this episode of How Marion Works, host Layla Price-Bodkin and co-host Lillian Harshaw go behind the scenes with Justin Dickerson, the City of Marion Building Commissioner. Justin breaks down the essential work, everyday challenges, and dedicated personnel shaping the physical footprint of Marion every single day.

Plus, stay tuned for two brand-new, juicy Ice Breaker questions, you definitely do not want to miss his answers!

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Building the Foundation: The critical responsibilities of the Building Commissioner in municipal growth.
Overcoming Development Challenges: How the department balances regulations, safety, and economic progress.
Shaping the City: The people and projects actively building a better future for Marion.
Ice Breaker Fun: A lighter side of local leadership with quick-fire questions and surprising reveals.

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Website: HowMarionWorks.com

SE 2 EP 15 | BUILDING THE FUTURE: INSIDE MARION COMMUNITY SCHOOLS FT. DR. STEPHANIE LOCKWOOD, SUPERINTENDENT AND APRIL L. EVANS, MS Aug 17, 2026

Show notes

How are local leaders actively shaping the future of education and setting the next generation up for success?

In this episode of How Marion Works, host Layla Price-Bodkin and co-host Lillian Harshaw welcome Dr. Stephanie Lockwood, Superintendent of Marion Community School Corporation, alongside April L. Evans, MS, Director of Human Resources. Together, they share an inside look at the vision, talent, and strategic leadership powering our local public school system.

Discover how dedicated educators, innovative academic programs, and strong community support are working together to inspire students and build a brighter future for Marion.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Educational Leadership: The strategic vision guiding Marion Community Schools into the future.
Empowering Educators: How intentional human resource strategies recruit and support world-class teaching talent.
Student-Centered Innovation: The programs and opportunities expanding horizons for local youth.
Community Alignment: Why strong partnerships between schools, families, and city leaders create lasting impact.

🔗 Connect With Us

Website: HowMarionWorks.com

SE 2 EP 14 | "THE INS & OUTS OF CITYWIDE MAINTENANCE" FT. AJAY PAPAI Aug 03, 2026

Show notes

What does it take to keep an entire city running behind the scenes?

In this episode of How Marion Works, host Layla Price-Bodkin and co-host Lillian Harshaw sit down with Ajay Papai, Superintendent of Citywide Maintenance. Ajay shares an exclusive look at the critical work, daily operations, and unexpected challenges involved in keeping Marion moving every single day.

From managing core municipal infrastructure to responding to emergency repairs, discover the dedication and strategy required to maintain our city’s foundation.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Behind the Operations: How the Citywide Maintenance team structures its daily workflow and priorities.
Overcoming Challenges: What happens when unexpected infrastructure issues and emergency repairs arise.
Keeping Marion Moving: The vital role maintenance plays in public safety, transportation, and quality of life.
The Team Impact: The dedicated workforce behind the heavy machinery and daily upkeep of our city.

🔗 Connect With Us

Website: HowMarionWorks.com
Follow on Socials: @HowMarionWorks

SE 2 EP 13 | "HEART, HUSTLE, & HOPE: HOW ABIDE COLLECTIVE CAME TO LIFE" FT. JAMIE J. KEYS Jul 20, 2026

Show notes

How do you turn a personal vision into one of Marion's most unique community spaces?

In this episode of How Marion Works, host Layla Price-Bodkin and co-host Lillian Harshaw sit down with Jamie J. Keys, the owner of Abide Collective. Jamie opens up about the faith, vision, and relentless determination required to bring her dream to life.

Discover how Abide Collective evolved into far more than just a boutique, it has become a vibrant hub where creativity, deep connection, and true purpose intersect. Jamie’s inspiring entrepreneurial journey is a testament to what happens when heart and hustle meet community impact.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

The Spark of Inspiration: How the vision for Abide Collective transitioned from a dream to reality.
More Than a Boutique: The intentional design behind creating a space centered on creativity and community connection.
Faith & Determination: A look into the mindset and resilience needed to navigate the highs and lows of building a local business.
Community & Purpose: Why fostering local relationships sits at the very heart of the Abide Collective mission.

🔗 Connect With Us

Website: HowMarionWorks.com

SE 2 EP 12 | "FIRST SHIFT, FIRST RESPONSE: INSIDE PATROL LEADERSHIP" FT. 1ST SHIFT PATROL CAPTAIN DREW TITTLE Jul 06, 2026

Show notes

First Shift, First Response: Inside Patrol Leadership with 1st Shift Patrol Captain Drew Tittle

What does it actually take to lead the officers keeping Marion safe every morning?

In this episode of How Marion Works, host Layla Price-Bodkin and co-host Lillian Harshaw sit down with Drew Tittle, the 1st Shift Patrol Captain. Captain Tittle pulls back the curtain on the daily realities of patrol operations, sharing deep insights into leadership, teamwork, and the vital role of building strong, trusting relationships with our local residents.

From the front lines of public safety to the core philosophy of community-first policing, get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the dedication and commitment required to protect and serve Marion every single day.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

The Daily Grind: An inside look at how 1st Shift patrol operations are structured and managed.
Leadership & Teamwork: What it takes to guide, support, and lead officers on the front lines.
Community Connection: Why building intentional relationships with Marion residents is essential for effective policing.
Behind the Badge: The personal commitment and teamwork driving the mission to keep our city safe.

🔗 Connect With Us

Website: HowMarionWorks.com (or your specific URL)

SE 2 EP 11 | FUELED BY PASSION, FIRED BY FLAVOR FT. JEFF RICHARDSON Jun 22, 2026

Show notes

What does it take to transform a raw passion for authentic barbecue into a beloved local favorite? Join host Layla Price-Bodkin and co-host Lillian Harshaw as they sit down with Jeff Richardson, the owner and pitmaster behind downtown Marion's own Obi’s Barbecue. In this episode, Jeff shares his inspiring entrepreneurial journey from the early days of smoking meats to establishing a thriving brick-and-mortar anchor right on South Washington Street. They will pull back the curtain on the intense logistics, sleepless nights, and pure grit required to run a successful pit operation while staying dedicated to quality, flavor, and consistency.

Beyond the smoke and signature rubs, this conversation dives deep into the heart of what makes small businesses thrive: community. Jeff discusses how great comfort food serves as an equalizer that brings families, local neighborhoods, and residents together under one roof. Filled with hometown pride and valuable business insights, this episode is a testament to what happens when local support meets hard work. Get ready for an inspiring conversation that highlights the true spirit of entrepreneurship in Marion and reminds us all of how a shared table can help a city grow.

SE 2 EP 10 | BEHIND THE UTILITY LINES, FT. SHERRY LOSHNOWSKY May 26, 2026

Show notes

We rely on them every single day, but how often do we actually stop to think about the essential systems that keep our community running smoothly? In this episode, we pull back the curtain on local infrastructure with Sherry Loshnowsky, Communications Specialist at the utility department.

Sherry takes us behind the scenes to show us what it really takes to keep our city safe, functional, and moving forward. From breaking down how these vital services impact our daily lives to explaining how the team works around the clock to support local growth, this conversation sheds light on the incredible effort happening right under our feet. Tune in to gain a whole new appreciation for the critical work and the dedicated people that power our everyday lives!

Listen Now

Catch the full audio experience and explore more episodes at our official home: 👉 www.HowMarionWorks.com

SE 2 EP 9 | SCOOPS, SPEED, AND SUCCESS, ALL SPRINKLED WITH LOVE FT. TYLER AND ABBY HEWITT May 11, 2026

Show notes

What happens when you mix a passion for speed with a love for local flavor? In this episode, we’re joined by Tyler and Abby Hewitt, the powerhouse co-owners of Ashley's Ice Cream Cafe. We dive into their journey of entrepreneurship, from balancing the fast-paced world of racing to building a beloved local staple that serves up more than just sweet treats.

Hear the story of how they’ve grown their business while keeping community and family at the heart of everything they do. It’s an inspiring conversation about the grit it takes to succeed and the love that keeps it all running. Grab a scoop and join us for this inside look at one of Marion’s favorite neighborhood spots!

Key Highlights

The Sweet Side of Business: The origin story of Ashley's Ice Cream Cafe and what makes their shop a community hub.
From the Track to the Cafe: How the lessons learned in racing translate to the world of business and leadership.
Entrepreneurial Balance: Tyler and Abby share their experience navigating growth as a husband-and-wife team.
Investing in Marion: Why supporting local business is vital to the city’s long-term success.

Listen Now

Catch the full audio experience and explore more episodes at our official home: 👉 www.HowMarionWorks.com

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