GCP153 - Nestle Purina PetCare Company Clinton, Iowa w/Justin Wilkinson, Factory Manager

Send us a textIn this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Justin Wilinson, Factory Manager at Nestlé Purina PetCare Company's plant in Clinton, Iowa.Justin is an experienced Director of Manufacturing with a proven success record in the food production industry. He is skilled in Safety Program Development, team building, leadership development, GMP, Six Sigma, Root Cause Analysis, Manufacturing, and Lean Manufacturing.Purina's Clinton factory produces some of the company's most popular pet food and treat brands and serves as a hub for innovative new products. The pet food production expansion includes new cooking and packaging lines that will support the manufacture of various pet food brands, including Purina ONE, Purina Pro Plan, and Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets. This expansion responds to growing demand from pet owners for nutritious, science-based dog and cat foods made with high-quality, trusted ingredients.The ongoing investments and expansions in Clinton position Nestlé Purina PetCare for continued growth and help meet the increasing demand from pet owners who trust Purina to deliver nutritious, high-quality dog and cat foods.For more information regarding the available career opportunities at the Clinton factory, please visit https://lnkd.in/gjQPaywB. To promote your business, organization, or event on the podcast, contact Grow Clinton at 563.242.5702 or www.GrowClinton.com.Grow Clinton values your feedback! Please complete a brief survey at https://lnkd.in/gfzKpUEM.Grow Clinton champions economic growth, fosters community, and supports the sustainable success of businesses in the Greater Clinton Region.Thank you for your ongoing support. ~Andy

Send us a textIn this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by two medical providers from MercyOne Medical Center & Hospital in Clinton, Iowa. Christine Lynch, DPM, is a podiatrist at MercyOne Clinton Specialty Care. She earned her bachelor's degree in biology from Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa, and her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from Des Moines University. Christine completed her residency at Miami VA Hospital in Miami, Florida.Dr. Lynch focuses on understanding her patients, educating them about their conditions, and helping them select the most suitable treatment options for their individual lifestyles. Outside of work, Christine enjoys walking her dog, supporting her children, and baking.W. Ashton Nickles, DPM, is also a podiatrist specializing in podiatric surgery at MercyOne Clinton Specialty Care. Originally from Southern California, he now considers himself an Iowan. He attended Brigham Young University for his undergraduate studies, majoring in Human Development. He moved to Iowa to continue his education at Des Moines University in 1999 and trained at Broadlawns Medical Center.Outside of work, Ashton spends most of his time with his wife and seven children. He enjoys outdoor activities such as woodworking, canoeing, and camping. He is actively involved in his faith and volunteers at his church, currently teaching an early morning gospel study class for high school students.Dr. Lynch and Dr. Nickles can be reached by calling 563.244.5900.For more information about MercyOne Clinton, visit their website at https://lnkd.in/gsgtqv_8. To promote your business, organization, or event on the podcast, contact Grow Clinton at 563.242.5702 or visit www.GrowClinton.com.Grow Clinton values your feedback! Please complete a short survey at https://lnkd.in/gfzKpUEM.Grow Clinton champions economic growth, fosters community, and supports the sustainable success of businesses in the Greater Clinton Region.Thank you for your ongoing support. ~Andy

Send us a textIn this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Justin Shaffer, Superintendent of Camanche Community School District.Mr. Shaffer will share a recap of his first year leading the district, including budget cuts and goal-setting focused on growth and development.His personal goal is to collaborate with the community, parents, staff, and students to create a safe learning environment for everyone. He believes that all students can succeed at high levels, regardless of circumstances. Communication is key to district-wide success, and Mr. Shaffer has shown his commitment to open and transparent communication.Located in Camanche, Iowa, the district was established in 1838, when the first school was built, with Miss Ann Eliza Thomas as the first teacher.For more information, please visit https://www.camanche.k12.ia.us/.To promote your business, organization, or event on the podcast, contact Grow Clinton at 563.242.5702 or www.GrowClinton.com.

Send us a textIn this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny sit down with Dr. Charlie Minnick to talk about the upcoming September Leadership Unlocked session, sponsored by Grow Clinton. The event is free to attend, and you can join in person or virtually via MS Teams. Click the link to register --> http://bit.ly/3VkQ5r7 Start a transformative journey designed for aspiring and current leaders eager to turn their vision into meaningful action. This training program, Leadership Unlocked: Empowering Your Potential, will equip participants with the core skills, tools, and mindset necessary to lead teams and organizations effectively in today's rapidly changing world.Session 9: Building a Strong Internal Communication StrategyPresenter: Dr. James ChitwoodSession Overview: Internal communication isn't just a bonus—it's the foundation of trust, culture, and performance.This month's presentation covers the key elements of effective workplace communication, supported by research, real-world examples (like Southwest Airlines), and proven leadership strategies.What You'll Learn:Why communication failures are often at the root of many business crises.How to create psychological safety that fosters innovation and teamwork.The importance of one-on-one meetings and effective feedback loops.How to deliver messages that resonate with what employees need to hear:"How does this help me do my job better?"Practical tips to avoid fear-based leadership and costly communication issues.Whether you're a team leader, HR professional, or business owner, this guide provides clear, actionable tools to enhance connection, clarity, and culture within your organization.Ready to lead with empathy and clarity?For more details on the Leadership Unlocked professional development series, visit http://bit.ly/3VkQ5r7. This series is free to attend; space is limited. Reservations are required. To promote your business, organization, or event on the podcast, contact Grow Clinton at 563.242.5702 or www.GrowClinton.com.

Send us a textIn this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by two outstanding professionals representing the Tri-City Group (TCG). Formerly known as Tri-City Electric, TCG was established in the fall of 2024 to more accurately reflect the full range of services and capabilities offered by the growing company.Along with the name change, TCG added Treiber Construction, Industrial Steel Erectors, and R&B Masonry to serve its clients better.TCG operates over 15 divisions and affiliated companies that cover a wide variety of specialized trades, including electricians, millwrights, steelworkers, automation, engineering, integration, IT services, fire protection, renewable energy, and more.Learn more about Tri-City Group by visiting https://www.tricityelectric.com/tri-city-group/.Tri-City Group is involved in several projects in Clinton and the surrounding area, while also heavily investing in apprenticeship programs and skilled trade opportunities to address workforce challenges at the local, state, and national levels. Sarah will discuss this in detail as her schedule allows, given her role.For additional information and a full event schedule, visit https://www.wildroseresorts.com/locations/clinton.To promote your business, organization, or event on the podcast, contact Grow Clinton at 563.242.5702 or www.GrowClinton.com.Grow Clinton values your feedback! Please complete a brief survey at https://www.growclinton.com/survey.Grow Clinton champions economic growth, fosters community, and supports the sustainable success of businesses in the Greater Clinton Region.Thank you for your ongoing support. ~Andy

Send us a textIn this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny welcome Scott Naumann, the Director of Business Development at Milestone Construction Group.Milestone Construction Group comprises experienced construction professionals who follow a results-driven design-build-deliver process, offering cost-effective and fast-paced commercial construction services.We will discuss the design, build, and delivery process aimed at preventing costly project delays and schedule overruns. Scott will share how his team works with entrepreneurs and business owners, helping them turn their visions into reality while keeping the process stress-free.For more information and to schedule a free consultation, email Scott at [email protected] behalf of the entire Grow Clinton team, we thank Scott and Milestone Construction Group for their ongoing commitment to the growth and future development of the Greater Clinton Region.To promote your business, organization, or event on the podcast, contact Grow Clinton at 563.242.5702 or www.GrowClinton.com.Grow Clinton values your feedback! Please complete a short survey at https://www.growclinton.com/survey.Grow Clinton champions business growth, fosters community, and supports sustainable economic success in the Greater Clinton Region.Thank you for your continued support. ~Andy

Send us a textIn this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny interview Larissa Van Zuiden from Wild Rose Casino & Hotel in Clinton, Iowa.Wild Rose Clinton has roots dating back to the early days of riverboat gaming in Iowa. Originally a cruising vessel, Wild Rose Clinton combines the charm of riverboat gaming with the excitement and amenities of a casino and hotel.Larissa shares details about popular events, including the Kentucky Derby, outdoor concerts with the Pork Tornadoes, Chase Matthew, and Quiet Riot, as well as the importance of partnering with Iowa-based companies.Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 20, 2025. Wild Rose Casino & Hotel is bringing back one of your favorite events, the Wild Rose Wine Fest! This year’s event will feature music by The Yacht Groove and will be held in the Wild Rose Courtyard (weather permitting). This community event is free to the public.Learn more at https://www.wildroseresorts.com/entertai.../winefest-2024-cl.The Wild Rose Casino & Hotel is a valuable part of Clinton, supporting numerous events and charitable efforts.Recent upgrades to the venue include sports betting, live entertainment, a gift shop, and a popular restaurant.For more information and a complete event schedule, visit https://www.wildroseresorts.com/locations/clinton.To promote your business, organization, or event on the podcast, contact Grow Clinton at 563.242.5702 or www.GrowClinton.com.Grow Clinton values your input! Please complete a short survey at https://www.growclinton.com/survey.Grow Clinton champions business growth, fosters community, and supports the sustainable economic success of the Greater Clinton Region.Thank you for your ongoing support. ~Andy

Send us a textIn this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by members of the Fly Iowa event planning committee to discuss the upcoming FREE event at the Clinton Municipal Airport (KCWI) on Saturday, September 13th.The fantastic event celebrates the 80th anniversary of the Clinton Municipal Airport serving the friendly skies in and around the Greater Clinton Region.We'll learn about the lineup of aviation performances, vendors, and opportunities for you to get involved!For more information, be sure to follow the event page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/share/1BLifEzYcu/.To promote your business, organization, or upcoming event on the podcast, contact Grow Clinton at 563.242.5702 or www.GrowClinton.com.Grow Clinton wants your input! Please complete a short survey available at https://www.growclinton.com/survey.Grow Clinton promotes business growth, builds community, and supports the sustainable economic success of the Greater Clinton Region.Thank you for your continued support. ~Andy

Send us a textIn this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are again joined in the studio by Dr. Charlie Minnick. Dr. Minnick will share information regarding the upcoming Leadership Unlocked session sponsored by Grow Clinton with a focus on developing a recognition strategy to ensure a thriving workplace. Are your employees feeling truly seen and valued? Recognition isn't just a feel-good perk—it's a strategic driver of retention, engagement, and performance. This month's presentation is packed with practical, research-backed insights to help organizations move beyond token gestures and build a culture of genuine appreciation.Key highlights include:Structure over spontaneity: Create intentional, equitable recognition plans tied to job roles and calendars.More than money: While compensation matters, clear growth paths and role diversification can be even more motivating.Recognize the person, not just the output: Align recognition with individual motivations and hidden talents.Beyond top performers: Celebrate consistent contributors, team wins, and peer-nominated efforts.Innovative strategies, real ROI: Reduce costly turnover and increase productivity with measurable recognition practices.Whether you're an HR leader, team manager, or executive, this guide helps you turn appreciation into action.Build a workplace where great people stay—and thrive!For more information on the Leadership Unlocked series, please visit http://bit.ly/4mpplBr. To promote your business, organization, or upcoming event on the podcast, contact Grow Clinton at 563.242.5702 or www.GrowClinton.com.Grow Clinton promotes business growth, builds community, and supports the sustainable economic success of the Greater Clinton Region.

Send us a textIn this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny are joined by Megan Dove of the Clinton County Development Association (CCDA). The CCDA, a non-profit organization and sponsor of the license for the Wild Rose Casino & Resort®, Clinton, provides financial assistance through grant programs to local organizations and charities that enhance the overall vitality and quality of life in Clinton County through their educational, social, cultural, and environmental programs and initiatives.Megan will discuss the upcoming August 13th grant submission deadline, with awards announced in November 2025, details regarding the partnership with the Wild Rose Casino & Hotel, and a list of past funded projects.To learn more about the CCDA and how your organization or charity can apply for grant funding, please visit https://clintoncountydevelopment.org/.To promote your business on the podcast, contact Grow Clinton at 563.242.5702 or www.GrowClinton.com. Grow Clinton promotes business growth, builds community, and supports the sustainable economic success of the Greater Clinton Region.