Kay Barnes: The Vision That Helped Bring a Downtown Royals Stadium to Life (Re-Release)

A big idea can change a city - and sometimes, it starts with one voice encouraging others to dream bigger.In this timely re-release, we revisit our conversation with Kay Barnes - former mayor of Kansas City, MO - a transformational leader whose vision helped reshape downtown Kansas City and redefine what’s possible for the region.Her influence is once again front and center.Following the announcement of a new Kansas City Royals stadium near Crown Center, owner John Sherman pointed directly to Barnes - and a handwritten note she sent him encouraging him to “think big… then think bigger” - as a key inspiration behind the vision becoming reality.In this conversation, Barnes reflects on leadership, long-term vision, and what it truly takes to move a city forward. From downtown development to civic momentum, her insights offer powerful context for one of the biggest moments in Kansas City’s future.🎧 Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting it now, this episode is a reminder that bold ideas & the people behind them can shape a city for generations.