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Inde Talks

Laurie Dean Wiley

Inde Talks is a local podcast for community conversations in Independence, MO. You may remember two of us from our previous podcast. On, "We Have Issues". Laurie Dean Wiley and Dan Hobart shared their love for Independence for almost 200 episodes, discussing Independence politics and now we are back for more with the addition of co-host, Jeff Fox.

Grab your coffee and hang with us as we discuss a wide variety of topics with our goal being to share facts, history, politics, faith, pop culture, and of course, our opinions. We hope that you find our conversations sincere, thoughtful, and humorous. We would appreciate your grace as we become your favorite, local trio. Welcome to Inde Talks.

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  • 30 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 52 min
  • Spanish

Episodes 30

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  • #35
    Sunday · 58 min

    City Manager vs. The Mayor

    In today’s episode, cohosts Laurie Dean Wiley and Dan Hobart respond to a request from a listener regarding our city government. We explain the City of Independence form of leadership and the role of the City Manager vs. that of the Mayor. If you have a question or idea for the podcast feel free to submit it to indetalks@gmail.com.

  • #34
    November 1 · 1 hr 2 min

    Community Conversations featuring Danielle DePree Crawford

    In this episode, Dan Hobart has a vast and entertaining conversation with Danielle DuPree Crawford. In her role as the Executive Director of the Independence Regional Ennovation Center, Danielle brings her leadership, ideas, experiences, and passion for entrepreneurship. She provides the support towards success for those at the business incubator. She also champions Global Entrepreneurship Week in KC. Talks, LLC and its Share Happy studio is one of those businesses at the Ennovation Center and owner, Laurie Dean Wiley is thrilled to have you learn more about Danielle and her work!

  • #32
    October 18 · 59 min

    The Movies We Love!

    In this episode Jeff, Dan, and Laurie do something a little different….our discussion goes to the movies.

  • #31
    October 11 · 40 min

    Community Conversations featuring Lee Williams

    On November 3, citizens have the opportunity to vote for a G.O. Bond to make repairs to five of our historic sites. These include The Vaile, The Bingham-Waggoner Estate, Fire Station 1, The Log Cabin Courthouse, and The Truman Memorial Building. Community leader, volunteer, and committee member, Lee Williams joins co-hosts Jeff Fox and Laurie Dean Wiley to discuss why she believes approving this $19 million dollar bond is necessary for Independence.

  • #30
    October 4 · 59 min

    Community Conversations featuring Jessica Fletcher

    In this episode Laurie Dean Wiley sits down with Jessica Fletcher, small business owner and recent honoree as one of the 2026 EJC Women of distinction. Jessica shares her story of resilience and the goodness of God’s grace that has led her to serve others.

  • #29
    September 27 · 48 min

    Reliving History with Mr. Fox - We are in a gas crisis…

    It’s another fascinating episode from our co-host Jeff Fox as Laurie Dean Wiley and Dan Hobart join Mr. Fox for a discussion on gas prices, the government at the time, and the oil business. From The Examiner of the 1970’s, it is another reminder of how much history does indeed repeat itself.

  • #28
    September 23 · 1 hr 13 min

    King of our Hill - Part 2

    This week’s podcast is presented in two parts. In part one co-hosts Dan Hobart and Jeff Fox allow our listeners to better know Kevin King. In the second part Laurie Dean Wiley and Dan have an opportunity to discuss the Mayor’s goals, policies, and opinions as the King of our hill, the City of Independence.

  • #27
    September 20 · 35 min

    King of our Hill - Part 1

    This week’s podcast is presented in two parts. In part one co-hosts Dan Hobart and Jeff Fox allow our listeners to better know Kevin King. In the second part Laurie Dean Wiley and Dan have an opportunity to discuss the Mayor’s goals, policies, and opinions as the King of our hill, the City of Independence.

  • #26
    September 13 · 57 min

    Remembering 9/11

    in this episode Laurie Dean Wiley, Dan Hobart, and Jeff Fox share their memories of 9/11. The three co-hosts reflect on the sobering attacks that day, our country’s response after, and our hope for the future. As Americans we stand firm to never forget!

  • #25
    September 6 · 56 min

    Part Two of my discussion with City Manager, Troy Anderson

    As promised Part Two of my conversation with City Manager, Troy Anderson. In this episode we discuss the city’s possibilities and some top issues that he has been able to identify since joining the City of Independence leadership.

  • #24
    August 30 · 40 min

    Civility in politics featuring CM Heather Wiley

    Co-hosts Jeff Fox and former CM Dan Hobart lead an important conversation today with CM Heather Wiley on the behavior and the lack of civility she is experiencing in Independence. Democracy includes debate, but how should elected officials respond when discourse crosses the line?

  • #23
    August 23 · 57 min

    Fireside Chat with CM John Perkins

    Today’s episode is formatted differently than our typical podcast episode. John is not one who enjoys talking about himself, but faced with social media attacks and a recall effort he asked me to serve as his moderator. I do not live in his district, but we do volunteer in a faith-based ministry together. Among other things, John answers questions about what he considered and why he voted in favor of the data center. Disclaimer: Inde Talks nor its co-hosts are endorsing a particular vote, just to vote. Voting closes on Sept. 1st, 2026 on the recall effort.

  • #22
    August 16 · 54 min

    “I’ll be your huckleberry" - Welcoming our new City Manager , Troy Anderson

    In this episode of Inde Talks, host Laurie Dean Wiley introduces listeners to Troy Anderson, City Manager for the City of Independence. From the very beginning, it’s clear that Troy is the right person for the job. With more than 20 years of experience in municipal leadership, Troy brings a rare combination of confidence, thoughtfulness, character, and genuine care for the community he serves. He’s a fearless and accomplished leader, a devoted family man, and a high performer who is equally willing to listen, learn, and consider new ideas. This is the first of a two-part conversation. Join Inde Talks as we get to know Troy, and then come back in a few weeks for a deeper dive into his observations on the City of Independence.

  • #21
    August 9 · 53 min

    Reliving Our History with Mr. Fox - Déjà vu

    In this episode, Jeff Fox brings us Examiner news from 1918—headlines that could almost have been written today. History really does repeat itself: war and pestilence, fear and wolves. A century later, the echoes are hard to ignore.

  • #20
    August 2 · 57 min

    Building up Independence featuring Eileen Weir

    Thrilled to have our former Mayor, visionary, and my friend, Eileen Weir join this episode of Inde Talks. As an Executive with Centric Build, Eileen is a recognized expert in Economic Development. Eileen and co-hosts, Jeff and Dan have a community conversation which highlights Economic Development; “the connection between human well-being, community growth, and overall prosperity”. Economic Development is good for Independence, the city that we love!

  • #18
    July 19 · 54 min

    All about Jeff Fox - He is a fascinating guy

    In this week’s episode Laurie Dean Wiley interviews Jeff Fox, our co-host and incredible resource. You will enjoy learning about and from his passion and intellect for history, non-fiction literature, journalism, and life! He’ is my favorite storyteller and I’m sure you will agree.

  • #17
    July 12 · 58 min

    Community Conversations - featuring Aaron Wilson

    In this episode, Dan Hobart and Jeff Fox have a conversation with Aaron Wilson. To say that Aaron is involved and leading as a community volunteer is an understatement. Listen in!

Showing 1–20 of 30 episodes