Company culture matters—but how do you build one that really works? HR leaders Lamar Leon with Midland Care Connection shares real-world strategies for creating workplaces where people want to be.

Every business knows company culture matters, but how do you create one that works? Six local HR experts reveal their secrets for developing cultures where people actually want to work.

Company culture matters—but how do you build one that really works? HR leaders Eric Jennings with McElroy’s shares real-world strategies for creating workplaces where people want to be.

Company culture matters—but how do you build one that really works? HR leaders Leanna James with SSC Advisors shares real-world strategies for creating workplaces where people want to be.

Martha Bartlett Piland, owner of MB Piland Advertising + Marketing, won the Legacy in Business Award at the 2025 Small Business Awards. Her company focuses on community impact and strategic marketing, especially through millennial research.

Abbey Brown, owner of The Brownstone, received the Woman-Owned Small Business Award at the 2025 Small Business Awards, recognized for her community-driven venue and commitment to elevating Topeka’s event industry.

Checking out books is just the beginning at the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library. A recent renovation added a Kids Library with special areas for children, teens and their families to learn and play. 

Pedro Concepcion had been the majority owner of The Wheel Barrel, a gourmet grilled cheese restaurant located in the North Topeka Arts and Entertainment District (NOTO), for three years when a vehicle crashed into it last May. 

Washburn marketing professor Dr. David Price explains the strategy behind products deliberately designed to fail.

Sarah Jepson, owner of The Refinery Medical Aesthetics, earned the Micro Enterprise Award at the 2025 Small Business Awards, recognized for her dedication to empowering women through self-care.