Small Town Roots to CEO of Greater Topeka Partnership | Molly Howey

Molly Howey, newly appointed CEO of the Greater Topeka Partnership, shares her vision for economic development and community growth in Topeka. With 14 years of experience in the organization, Howey brings both institutional knowledge and fresh perspective to continue the momentum building in Shawnee County.• Born and raised in Overbrook, Howey graduated from Washburn University and now lives north of Topeka• The Greater Topeka Partnership encompasses four entities: Go Topeka (economic development), Visit Topeka (tourism), Downtown Topeka, and the Chamber of Commerce• Economic development in Topeka focuses on creating prosperity through quality employment, workforce development, entrepreneurism, and business attraction• Topeka's net promoter score has improved from -48 to +15, showing positive shifts in community perception• The Link Innovation Center, opening in early 2026, will provide lab space for entrepreneurs in animal health and ag tech industries• Topeka's location in the "animal health corridor" (between Columbia, MO and Manhattan, KS) represents 60% of the world's GDP in animal health• Quality of life benefits include short commute times, affordable living, outdoor recreation, and diverse lifestyle options within minutes of downtown• The city offers a unique combination of being "large enough that you've got what you need, but small enough that if you have an idea, you can make an impact"________________________________________Apply now at choosetopeka.com if you're thinking about making a move. Choose Topeka can get you up to $15,000 to relocate, whether you're buying or renting. Topeka and Shawnee County are ready to welcome you.________________________________________0:00 - Meet Molly Howey, GTP's New CEO6:00 - From Overbrook to Economic Development17:38 - Understanding Economic Development in Topeka24:00 - Innovation and Entrepreneurship Initiatives36:22 - Community Perception and New Promoter Score42:30 - Quality of Life in Topeka_________________________________________Beyond the Podcast: 🎙️Be sure to follow our Topeka Insider Socials below and check out our website for additional stories and articles pertaining to Topeka, KSWebsite -- https://topekainsider.com/Facebook --- https://www.facebook.com/topekainsiderInstagram -- https://www.instagram.com/topekainsiderFollow Your Hosts: 📱Follow both Justin & Jon on their personal socials to get connected. They would love to connect and answer any questions about the show or their day to day.Jon Griffith's Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/thejongriffith/Justin Armbruster's Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/armbruster_jdFor Any Inquiries, please DM @TopekaInsider on Instagram!