In this episode, Frank Boal sits down with Jonathan Thomas, President & CEO of American Century Investments, to explore how one of Kansas City’s most influential financial firms has woven purpose directly into its business model.

Jonathan breaks down the company’s unique ownership structure, where over 40% of profits support life-changing medical discoveries at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research. He shares how this mission-driven approach fuels the company’s culture, values, and long-term strategy, proving that a global investment firm can deliver both performance and impact.

They also dig into American Century’s long-running connection to the American Century Championship in Lake Tahoe — a celebrity golf tournament that blends star athletes, entertainment icons, charitable giving, and national visibility. Jonathan shares behind-the-scenes stories from the event, its philanthropic reach, and how it reinforces American Century’s belief in prospering with purpose.

Whether you’re interested in leadership, philanthropy, finance, Kansas City business, or the intersection of profit and purpose, this episode offers a powerful look at what it means to build a company around making a difference.

What does it take to run a world-class zoo and aquarium?

In this episode, we’re joined by Sean Putney, Executive Director and CEO of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium, to explore how this beloved KC institution balances conservation, education, and family fun.

From the Zoo’s brand-new state-of-the-art aquarium to its role in wildlife care and community engagement, Putney shares insider stories on animal conservation, the challenges of running a major attraction, and what’s ahead for the popular destination in the heart of Kansas City.

Step into The Rabbit hOle, the world’s first immersive storybook museum right here in North Kansas City.

In this episode, co-founder Pete Cowdin shares how he and Deb Pettit pulled from their experience at Reading Reptile, Kansas City’s beloved children’s bookstore, to create a groundbreaking cultural landmark where classic characters leap off the page and into real life.

Pete takes us behind the scenes of the creativity, grit, imagination, and vision required to build an experience unlike anything else in the world. From interactive installations to literary adventures big enough for grownups, discover how The Rabbit hOle is redefining the way families experience children’s literature — and why Kansas City was the perfect place to make it happen.

Whether you’re a parent, educator, creative, or KC culture enthusiast, this episode offers a magical look into a museum designed for everyone.

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