What I believe is common sense, I'm learning is not that common. The public has been left out of so many conversations on community issues, and as a publicly elected official, I want to change this. I want to invite my community in a new space, where you can listen in behind the scenes to the discussions that lead to the decisions that are impacting our lives. In a podcast I named Common Sense, I'm inviting the whole world to see these conversations happening in real time! Subscribe to listen in on these conversations!
On this episode of "Common Sense" host Ryan Baty sits down with youth advocate, mentor, and community leader Adan Grimaldo for an eye-opening discussion on the realities facing vulnerable youth in Sedgwick County. Drawing from Adan Grimaldo’s personal journey from gang involvement and behavioral health struggles to powerful transformation, the conversation dives deep into the root causes of youth violence, the foster care crisis, and the community’s role in reversing dangerous trends among local kids.
Listeners will get a candid look at why common sense solutions aren’t all that common, what happens when juvenile offender kids enter the foster system, and why organizations like Pyxis and Hope for the Hood are making a critical difference on the front lines. Adan Grimaldo unpacks the challenges, heartbreaks, and occasional victories of working with some of the most at-risk children in the area—offering a mix of hard truths, hope, and practical ideas for what needs to change. This episode is a powerful call to action for everyone who cares about the future of our youth.
12 Jan 2026
Episode 15- Joseph Shepard
Wichita City Councilman-elect Joseph Shepard discusses his journey into public service, the challenges of local government, and his vision for Wichita in an interview with Ryan Baty.
2 Jan 2026
Episode 14- John Whitmer & Andy Hooser
Host Ryan Baty interviews John Whitmer and Andy Hooser, prominent figures in Kansas politics, exploring the impact of talk radio and conservative messaging on local and state governance.
1 Dec 2025
Episode 13 Sheree Utash & Kelly Bielefeld
President Sheree Utash and Superintendent Kelly Bielefeld discuss with host Ryan Baty the innovative Future Ready Centers, a partnership providing students pathways to high-demand careers, in this interview episode.
10 Nov 2025
Episode 12- Katy Tyndell
Attorney Katy Tyndell discusses the motivations behind civic engagement and the urgent issues facing Kansas and the country in an interview with Ryan Baty, offering insights into fostering nonpartisan dialogue.
4 Oct 2025
Episode 11- Sheriff Jeff Easter
Host Ryan Baty interviews Sheriff Jeff Easter, who shares his experiences and insights on the challenges and changes in law enforcement, including jail staffing, policing technology, and the impact of national events.
27 Sept 2025
Episode 10- Ben Davis
Hosts Ryan Baty and Ben Davis explore the assassination of Charlie Kirk, analyzing its impact on conservative circles and American society, while emphasizing the urgent need for respectful dialogue in this interview.
25 Aug 2025
Episode 9- Don Smith
Host Ryan Baty interviews Don Smith about his powerful journey from addiction and incarceration to redemption and renewal through faith and community support.
23 Jul 2025
Episode 8- Steve Dixon
Local business owner Steve Dixon discusses with host Ryan Baty the multifaceted issues of homelessness in Wichita and Sedgwick County, emphasizing collaborative community-driven solutions and compassionate service in this interview.
3 Jul 2025
Episode 7 Joe Woodward
Joe Woodward, Director of Operations, shares insights with host Ryan Baty about Stand Together's grassroots approach to fostering change in Wichita through unique partnerships, in this interview episode.
31 May 2025
Episode 6- Joy Eakins
Ryan Baty interviews Joy Eakins, Wichita Chamber Chair, about her journey as a businesswoman, her time on the Wichita School Board, and her perspective on the needs of the state.
14 May 2025
Diane Albert
In my view, the most important levels of government are found closest to home at the local level. Where services that impact our lives happen every day. City government, county government, and particularly, our local school boards have enormous influence on the health and prosperity of our community. And one of the most important figures working to help shape the largest school district in the entire state is Diane Albert, USD 259 Board of Education President. Wichita Public Schools is in a pivotal season where decisions are being made by 7 board members and the Superintendent. And they will undoubtedly have generational impact. In this episode, Diane and I talk about these decisions, these challenges, and so much more. I hope you enjoy this conversation with my friend, Diane Albert.
30 Apr 2025
Episode 4: Damon Young
I learned early in sports and business that a big part of personal growth requires you to guard your influences. You have to be very selective on who you allow to speak into your life, and for me in this season, I have one specific man I’ve invited into that space, Damon Young.
On a regular basis, I seek out Damon to get feedback and counsel on multiple issues, and I’ve continued to be inspired by his heart and his vision for our community. From his work in both the private and non-profit organizations, and now as CEO of Lead Wichita, Damon and I talk about all that he’s learned at each of these stops and what he sees as challenges and opportunities for our community.
16 Apr 2025
Mayor Lily Wu
From Immigrant, to Journalist, and now Mayor, Lily Wu's story is nothing short of remarkable. In November of 2023, the people of Wichita voted her into office to help shape the future of their city. For my seat on the Sedgwick County Commission, I've worked closely with Lily in trying to better align the interests of Wichita and Sedgwick County while also trying to bring solutions to some of our most significant community challenges.
Over the last year, I've come to better understand what makes the Mayor tick, and what she hopes to accomplish in her time in public office. We talk about these things and more including the topics of reform and what that could potentially look like, and how we both deal with the highs and lows of local politics. I hope you enjoy my conversation with City of Wichita Mayor, Lily Wu.
2 Apr 2025
Ben Davis
In every campaign, the public sees the candidate and the issues—but behind the scenes, strategists shape the outcome. That person for me? Ben Davis. Known for his sharp mind, strong principles, and intense approach, Ben has worked on campaigns across the country, most recently leading the 'vote no' campaign for a school bond in Kansas’ largest school district. In this episode, we dive into his strategy, why he got involved, and his take on the future of the conservative movement and the Republican party. Tune in for a candid conversation with my friend, political strategist, and consultant, Ben Davis.
17 Mar 2025
Lacey Cruse
It's not often that you find two political opponents having a civil dialogue amongst each other. In this episode, I invite Lacey Cruse, former Sedgwick County Commissioner, for open dialogue.
We discuss the weight of making decisions as a publicly elected official, the impact that taking office had on our lives, and what goes on inside of our in heads taking on these roles.
Who has been a guest on Common Sense with Ryan Baty
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Joseph Shepard
John Whitmer
Andy Hooser
Sheree Utash
Kelly Bielefeld
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
71,318
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
9 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 50 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
59
Social presence
0
YouTube
72
Engagement
32
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