Interviews with local business owners and residents discussing Kansas City, their business, and what the future of KC looks like. Hosted by David Maples and Ginny Huling.
How Kansas City is Becoming More Accessible w/ Martha Jaynes, CEO of Platte County Board of Services
Discover how Martha Jaynes is transforming services for individuals with developmental disabilities in Platte County and fostering a more inclusive and accessible Kansas City. This episode highlights innovative programs, community involvement, and leadership insights to inspire positive change.
Main Topics Covered:
The history and mission of Platt County Board of Services
Innovations in transportation and community engagement programs
The importance of accessibility, inclusion, and community collaboration
Martha's personal journey into disability support and leadership
Future visions for Kansas City as a more accessible, diverse city
In this episode:
Martha shares the origins of the Platte County Board of Services and its role as a developmental disability resource.
An inside look at the organization’s facilities and programs, including transportation fleets, day habilitation, and community outreach initiatives like Neurodiverse City and Mobile NBC.
The significance of universal design, emotional support symbols, and building inclusive environments.
How local partnerships with schools and nonprofits foster lifelong community engagement.
Martha’s leadership journey, from early classroom support to CEO, emphasizing community involvement and continuous learning.
Practical advice for listeners: explore your local community, support accessible spaces, and vote in local elections.
Martha’s vision for Kansas City—growth, diversity, accessibility, and cultivating employment opportunities for all abilities.
Timestamps:
(00:00) - Introduction to Martha Jaynes and the Platte County Board of Services
(02:28) - History and mission of Platte County Board of Services
(03:52) - Public perception and hidden gem status in Kansas City
(04:51) - Facility tour and programs overview
(06:44) - Transportation program expansion and upcoming demand during Kansas City events
(09:55) - Similar services in neighboring counties and collaboration efforts
(11:20) - Martha’s personal journey from Michigan to Kansas City
(12:40) - Community growth, diversity, and Kansas City’s future
(14:36) - The importance of accessibility and inclusive city planning
(16:27) - Recognizing invisible disabilities and universal support
(17:27) - The societal impact of broadening understanding of disability
(20:21) - Building community through early education and school partnerships
(22:14) - The significance of early intervention and planning for lifelong success
(23:37) - Funding and support for local organizations and initiatives
(25:26) - Neurodiverse City and Mobile NBC programs
(28:41) - Inter-county collaboration via MACDDS and STARLING
(29:41) - Challenges facing legislation and funding for disability services
(31:09) - Martha’s early career supporting students with disabilities
(34:34) - Transition from education to community service and leadership
(37:50) - Call to action: get involved in local community programs
(44:29) - Notable community leaders and influencers in Kansas City
(45:48) - The future of Kansas City: growth, accessibility, and diversity
(48:04) - Creating a future that supports employment and diversity
(49:55) - The value of diversity and resilience in community building
(50:52) - The power of understanding stories and perspectives
(52:13) - The importance of local politics and community engagement
(54:36) - How to contact Platt County Board of Services
(55:33) - Martha’s favorite Kansas City barbecue spots
(56:52) - Martha’s personal reason for loving Kansas City
(57:47) - Closing remarks and encouragement to participate in community and elections
Resources & Links:
Platte County Board of Services (https://www.pcbservices.org/) – Connect to community support and programs
Neurodiverse City (https://northlandconnections.org/neurodiversecity) – Community space celebrating neurodiversity
MACDDS (https://macdds.org/) – Missouri Association of County Developmental Disabilities Services
STARLING (https://starlingkc.org/) – Community of service providers in Missouri
14 Apr 2026
Steve Sirois of Callsign Brewing Shares His Military Journey and Veteran Support Mission - S03E01
In this inspiring episode, host David sits down with Steve Sirois, founder of Callsign Brewing in North Kansas City, to explore his remarkable journey from a military veteran to a thriving craft brewery owner. Steve shares how his extensive service in the U.S. Air Force shaped his approach to entrepreneurship and community involvement. Discover the powerful story behind Callsign Brewing’s mission to honor fallen soldiers and support veterans with PTSD through specially crafted beers and charitable initiatives.
Website - https://www.callsignbrewing.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/callsignbrewing/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Callsign-Brewing-LLC/61577177185066/
28 May 2024
Dan Smith | S02E04 | KC Leaders
Dan Smith, co-founder of Porter House KC, discusses the mission of his organization to support entrepreneurs in the urban core of Kansas City. They offer small business development programs, mentoring, and soon-to-be-opening retail-based incubator. Smith emphasizes the importance of addressing the social determinants of health in the community and creating partnerships with organizations focused on education, healthcare, and economic development.
Takeaways
Porter House KC supports entrepreneurs in the urban core of Kansas City through small business development programs, mentoring, and a soon-to-be-opening retail-based incubator.
The incubator aims to provide a space for retail entrepreneurs to call home and offers educational elements to enhance their entrepreneurial journey.
Addressing the social determinants of health is crucial for improving the community, and Porter House KC partners with organizations focused on education, healthcare, and economic development.
Dan Smith’s personal journey and love for Kansas City highlight the importance of community and connections in creating a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Recognize and celebrate the success and impact of others in the community
Find inspiration from local leaders and influencers who are making a difference
Utilize available resources and tools to support your entrepreneurial journey
Embrace continuous learning and be open to transformation in order to thrive
Follow Porter House KC:
Website – https://theporterhousekc.com/
(https://theporterhousekc.com/)
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ThePorterHouseKC/
(https://www.facebook.com/ThePorterHouseKC/)
Twitter – https://x.com/porterhousekc
(https://x.com/porterhousekc)
All episodes of KC Leaders brought to you by Catapult Creative Media – https://catapultcreativemedia.com/ (https://catapultcreativemedia.com/)
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