HOW MARION WORKS - CITY OF MARION

Latest Episodes:

SE 2 EP 8 | "VISION, GROWTH, FAMILY, AND FUN" FT. MAYOR RONALD MORRELL, JR. Apr 27, 2026

Show notes

Ever wonder what drives the person behind the title? Join Layla and Lillian for a lighthearted and inspiring chat with Mayor Ronald Morrell Jr. We’re diving into everything from the big-picture vision for Marion’s growth to the personal stories that fuel his passion for our city.

We discuss the success of Clean City 2.0, the strategic developments currently breaking ground, and what it really takes to build a stronger, more connected community for our families. Whether you're curious about local policy or just want to hear the heart behind the leadership, this episode offers a unique look at the future of Marion.

Key Highlights

The Blueprint for Growth: A roadmap of upcoming projects and city expansion.
Clean City 2.0: The impact and goals of the initiative designed to revitalize our local environment.
Leadership & Legacy: A look at the Mayor’s life outside of City Hall and how his family values shape his service.
Building Connections: Why community engagement is the true engine of progress.

Listen Now

Catch the full audio experience and explore more episodes at our official home: 👉 www.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 EP 7 | "DESIGNING WITH PURPOSE" FT. WENDY PUFFER Apr 13, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of How Marion Works, hosts Layla Price-Bodkin and Lillian Harshaw sit down with Wendy Puffer, co-founder and CEO of Marion Design Co., to explore the profound impact of empathy-driven design. Wendy discusses how intentional branding, web development, and product design serve as catalysts for growth—not just for individual businesses, but for the entire community.

From her personal creative evolution to the far-reaching influence of her work across Indiana, Wendy dives deep into the philosophy of designing with purpose and how thoughtful aesthetics can foster genuine connection and lasting change.

SE 2 EP 6 | "SUPPORT, SERVICE, & SATISFACTION" FT. LISA EDWARDS Mar 30, 2026

Show notes

Ever wonder what keeps a fire department running smoothly when the sirens aren't blaring? In Season 2, Episode 6 of How Marion Works, hosts Layla Price-Bodkin and Lillian Harshaw go behind the scenes with Lisa Edwards, the Administrative Assistant for the Marion Fire Department.

Lisa pulls back the curtain on the essential administrative engine that powers our local first responders. She shares the reality of managing the moving parts of a high-stakes department and explains how her role directly impacts the safety of our community. From fostering team success to the personal joy of connecting with the citizens of Marion, Lisa discusses why being the backbone of the station is a calling, not just a job.

In Season 2, Episode 6, we explore:

Behind the Scenes: The vital link between administration and emergency response.
Community Connection: How passion for service translates into a safer city.
The Heart of the Station: Why supporting our firefighters is a team effort.

Get a new perspective on the people who serve Marion from the front office to the front lines.

SE 2 EP 5 | "VINYLS, VIBES, & VISION" FT. MATT WILSON Mar 16, 2026

Show notes

In the latest episode of the How Marion Works Podcast, co-hosts Layla Price-Bodkin and Lillian Harshaw sit down for an engaging conversation with Matt Wilson, the visionary owner of Psychedelic Cellar. Together, this dynamic trio explores the rhythmic heart of Marion and the story of how a lifelong obsession with music transformed a private collection into one of the city’s most unique cultural landmarks. This isn't just a discussion about running a record store; it’s a deep dive into the soul of a business that serves as a community anchor for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

Throughout the episode, Layla and Lillian lead a journey through the shop’s creation, detailing Matt's relentless hunt for rare vinyl and the unforgettable stories behind those one-of-a-kind finds. The conversation captures the magic that happens when passion meets purpose, illustrating how physical media continues to bridge gaps and keep local culture spinning in an increasingly digital age. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just a fan of great local success stories, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

SE 2 EP 4 | "THE HEARTS BEHIND MARION ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL" FT. BRITTNEY SHROUT & STEVEN GARMON Mar 02, 2026

Show notes

From the front lines of emergency calls to the heartwarming success of a final adoption, Brittney Shrout and Steven Garmon offer an inside look at the daily life of animal welfare.

In this episode, they dive into the essential work their team performs, ranging from high-stakes rescues and reuniting lost pets with their families to educating the community on responsible ownership. Join us as they share the challenges of the field and the ultimate reward that keeps them going: seeing vulnerable animals find their perfect forever homes.

SE 2 EP 3 | "CRAFTED TO LAST" FT. MARC LOBDELL Feb 16, 2026

Show notes

Meet Marc Lobdell, the person behind one of Marion’s most trusted and long-standing businesses. Discover how Jerry’s Leather Shop and Shoe Hospital combines tradition, skill, and genuine care for the community and beyond.

SE 2 EP 2 | MPD K9 DIVISION, LT. BRYAN RIDGWAY Feb 02, 2026

Show notes

In Season 2, Episode 2 of How Marion Works, host Layla Price-Bodkin and co-host Lillian Harshaw sit down with MPD Lieutenant Bryan Ridgway to explore the specialized world of the Marion Police Department’s K-9 Division. Lieutenant Ridgway shares his personal journey into law enforcement and the path that led him to his calling as a K-9 handler, offering an inside look at how these dogs are selected, trained, and integrated into the force.

The conversation goes beyond the tactical, delving into the unique bond between handler and dog, both on duty and at home, and the logistical challenges of maintaining a high-functioning K-9 unit. Lieutenant Ridgway also highlights various career specialties within the MPD and emphasizes the vital role of community engagement in public safety, concluding with advice for aspiring officers and a look at his future plans for the department.

SE 2 EP 1 | LILLIAN HARSHAW: NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION COORDINATOR Jan 19, 2026

Show notes

We kicked off a fresh new season with returning host Layla Price-Bodkin introducing her new co-host, Lillian Harshaw. In this episode, you'll get to know all about her new position as the City's new Neighborhood Association Coordinator and much more. Learn and laugh as they share some of their personal stories, life lessons, and upcoming events under Mayor Morrell's administration.

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM HOW MARION WORKS! Dec 25, 2025

Show notes

On behalf of the City of Marion, IN the team here at the "HOW MARION WORKS" podcast would like to wish all of our listeners and supporters a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

We are excited to kick-off season 2 in the year of 2026! Stayed tuned to: www.HowMarionWorks.com for all updates and future episodes!

SE 1 EP 24 | UTILITIES OF THE CITY WITH ROBIN SCHRADER Dec 22, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of How Marion Works, host Layla Price-Bodkin explores the vital infrastructure that powers the city. We are joined by Robin Schrader, Director of Municipal Utilities, for a deep dive into the systems that provide clean water, manage wastewater, and protect our local environment.
In This Episode, We Discuss: * The Essentials of City Life: Understanding the daily operations of the Municipal Utilities Department and its impact on public health and safety.
Infrastructure Management: How the city balances urgent maintenance, like water main breaks, with long-term capital upgrades.
Environmental Responsibility: A look at wastewater treatment, stormwater management, and the city’s role in protecting the Mississinewa River.
Navigating Services: Breaking down utility billing and identifying the most effective ways for residents to report service issues like leaks or blocked drains.
Future Planning: The challenges of aging infrastructure and the steps being taken to ensure long-term water reliability and conservation.
Connect with the City of Marion Online: Visit cityofmarion.in.gov or find archives at HowMarionWorks.com.
Mobile: Download the MyMarionApp from the Apple Store or Google Play.
Social Media: Follow @CityofMarionIN on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, and TikTok.
Show Information How Marion Works is dedicated to keeping the nearly 30,000 residents of Marion, IN, informed about the "moving parts" of their local government. New episodes release every other Monday at 5 a.m..

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