Audio & Video

Ponca City Monthly
Podcast

Conversations with the people shaping our community. New episodes every other Friday.

All Episodes

June 4, 2026

Ponca City Celebrates America's 250th Birthday

On this week's podcast, we're joined by Editor-in-Chief Kelsey Wagner. Since it's the first of the month, we're taking a look at the stories featured in the latest issue of Ponca City Monthly. The big topic, of course, is our cover story on how Ponca City is going all in for America's 250th Birthday celebration. Festivities are happening all month long, kicking off with the world-famous 101 Wild West Rodeo. We also chat about Kelsey's busy schedule this time of year, from parades to special awards ceremonies, and highlight the many events taking place throughout the community. We also discuss Ponca City's popular disc golf courses. This month's issue features a guide that rates the courses not only by skill level but by scenic beauty as well. While we're both proud to live in a community with such great courses, Kelsey and I confess that despite our best efforts, neither of us has become much of a disc golfer. For Mayor Minute, Kelsey discusses the work of Ponca City's Downtown Task Force and the progress the group has made in revitalizing the downtown area. Join us for all this and a whole lot of laughs—maybe a few more than necessary.

May 28, 2026

PCM+ Podcast: Which Golden Girl Would You Be In A Heist?

This week on the Ponca City Monthly Podcast, we sit down with our friend Romey, who writes our monthly book reviews. Romey recently returned from a book publishing convention where she discovered an upcoming novel that’s basically a mashup of The Golden Girls and Ocean’s Eleven. Needless to say, we both agreed it immediately landed on our must-read list. We then dive into Broadway as we discuss Kid, Wait Till You Hear This!, the new memoir by Broadway legend Liza Minnelli. Are you Team Minnelli or Team Gaga? Speaking of musicals, Ponca Playhouse is closing out its season with the hit musical Mamma Mia! (https://www.poncacitymonthly.com/p/free-ponca-playhouse-to-close-season) this weekend. If you attend tomorrow’s show (5/29), you can sit with Kelsey and me! Stop by Brace Books & More (https://bracebooks.indielite.org/) to chat with Romey about her thoughts on Les Misérables and pick up your copy of Kid, Wait Till You Hear This! by Liza Minnelli. Ponca City Monthly Plus is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. ➡️ Opt in or out of different newsletters on your “My Account” page (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/account) . ➡️ Learn more about Ponca City Monthly+ (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/about) Ponca City Monthly is a locally owned publication that delivers hyperlocal news in print and online. Like what we are doing? Feel free to forward this along and tell a friend. Sponsorship information/customer service: email [email protected] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit poncacitymonthly.substack.com/subscribe (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2)

May 21, 2026

PCM+ Podcast: Herbs and Rodeo

This week on the Ponca City Monthly Podcast, we’re excited to welcome Zach Trantham from the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center. Zach has the fun job of promoting all the events happening in and around Ponca City that help make our community a destination worth visiting. In the June issue of the magazine, we also feature a beautiful photography spread highlighting some of the many unique Airbnb properties available around town. We chat about two major upcoming events: Herb Fest (https://www.poncacityherbfestival.com/) , happening Saturday, June 6, at the beautiful Cann Gardens, and our big annual shindig the 101 Wild West Rodeo (https://www.101wildwestrodeo.com/) which kicks off June 12 and runs through June 14. You can find a full list of area events by visiting Zach’s website at visitponcacity.com (https://www.visitponcacity.com/) . A fun behind-the-scenes note: Zach and I filmed this podcast back in January, just hours before the giant snowstorm hit and shut down half the city for a week. I managed to edit out all our nervous references to the impending weather but it was fun to think about cooler weather while I sit and sweat! Ponca City Monthly Plus is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. ➡️ Opt in or out of different newsletters on your “My Account” page (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/account) . ➡️ Learn more about Ponca City Monthly+ (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/about) Ponca City Monthly is a locally owned publication that delivers hyperlocal news in print and online. Like what we are doing? Feel free to forward this along and tell a friend. Sponsorship information/customer service: email [email protected] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit poncacitymonthly.substack.com/subscribe (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2)

May 20, 2026

PCM+ Podcast: Roots and Rodeo

May 7, 2026

PCM+ Podcast: It's May!

This week on the Ponca City Podcast, Andy sits down with Editor-In-Chief Kelsey Wagner to talk all about the May Issue, which is on news stands now. This month’s cover story is all about the Summer STEM Academy (https://www.poncacitymonthly.com/p/university-stem-camp-where-kids-become) at University Center (https://www.ucponcacity.com/summer-stem-academy.html) . Have you ever played the “how far can I drive with my oil light on” game? In talking about our business spotlight: David’s Garage (https://www.davidsgarageautomotive.com/) , I share some of my ghastly car maintenance habits. Kelsey also shares her thoughts on promoting me, your lovely podcast host, to managing editor of Ponca City Monthly. In her Mayor Minute we crack open the conversation on E-Bikes in Ponca City (menace or misunderstood?) and the celebration of the Highland St Bridge opening tomorrow, May 8th. Thanks for listening Ponca City Monthly Plus is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. ➡️ Opt in or out of different newsletters on your “My Account” page (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/account) . ➡️ Learn more about Ponca City Monthly+ (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/about) Ponca City Monthly is a locally owned publication that delivers hyperlocal news in print and online. Like what we are doing? Feel free to forward this along and tell a friend. Sponsorship information/customer service: email [email protected] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit poncacitymonthly.substack.com/subscribe (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2)

May 7, 2026

It's May In Ponca City, Oklahoma

This week on the Ponca City Podcast, Andy sits down with Editor-In-Chief Kelsey Wagner to talk all about the May Issue, which is on news stands now. This month’s cover story is all about the Summer STEM Academy at University Center. Have you ever played the “how far can I drive with my oil light on” game? In talking about our business spotlight: David’s Garage, I share some of my ghastly car maintenance habits. Kelsey also shares her thoughts on promoting me, your lovely podcast host, to managing editor of Ponca City Monthly. In her Mayor Minute we crack open the conversation on E-Bikes in Ponca City (menace or misunderstood?) and the celebration of the Highland St Bridge opening tomorrow, May 8th. Thanks for listening

April 30, 2026

PCM+ Podcast: Coach Agee Leads PCHS LadyCat Wrestlers to Success

On this week’s episode, Andy sits down with Coach Agee from Ponca City Public Schools (https://www.pcps.us/) . Since Coach Agee and the POHI LadyCat Wrestling Team are our April cover stars, we thought it would be the perfect way to wrap up the month. In this conversation, Coach Agee talks about his coaching philosophy, explaining what it takes to mold a team of great athletes who are also prepared to be leaders in our community. Don’t Miss the Story If you haven’t read contributing writer Theresa Sacket’s fantastic cover article yet, grab a physical copy now or read it online here: More Than a Team: How the Ponca City LadyCat Wrestlers Are Building Champions in the Classroom, on the Mat, and in Their Community (https://www.poncacitymonthly.com/p/copy-more-than-a-team-how-the-ponca) Thanks for listening! Ponca City Monthly Plus is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. ➡️ Opt in or out of different newsletters on your “My Account” page (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/account) . ➡️ Learn more about Ponca City Monthly+ (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/about) Ponca City Monthly is a locally owned publication that delivers hyperlocal news in print and online. Like what we are doing? Feel free to forward this along and tell a friend. Sponsorship information/customer service: email [email protected] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit poncacitymonthly.substack.com/subscribe (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2)

April 30, 2026

PCM+ Podcast: Coach Agee Leads PCHS LadyCat Wrestlers to Success

On this week’s episode, Andy sits down with Coach Agee from Ponca City Public Schools. Since Coach Agee and the POHI LadyCat Wrestling Team are our April cover stars, we thought it would be the perfect way to wrap up the month. In this conversation, Coach Agee talks about his coaching philosophy, explaining what it takes to mold a team of great athletes who are also prepared to be leaders in our community. Don’t Miss the Story If you haven’t read contributing writer Theresa Sacket’s fantastic cover article yet, grab a physical copy now or read it online here: More Than a Team: How the Ponca City LadyCat Wrestlers Are Building Champions in the Classroom, on the Mat, and in Their Community Thanks for listening!

April 16, 2026

PCM+ Podcast: Pioneer Technology Center

On this week’s episode of the Ponca City Monthly Podcast, Andy sits down with Terri Busch, Pioneer Technology Center (https://www.pioneertech.edu/) ’s Marketing and Communication Coordinator and a regular PCM contributor. Terri dives into her latest feature article highlighting PTC’s Partner in Progress program and this year’s distinguished honoree, Tom Riley of Tomco Metal Fab LLC. We explore what truly makes PTC a cornerstone of our community, from their diverse hobby classes to their eagle-eye focus on the evolving economy. Tune in to hear how constant innovation and facility renovations are fueling the future of workforce growth in Ponca City. Don't miss Terri’s latest article! Grab your copy of Ponca City Monthly to see how PTC and Tom Riley are shaping our community. Ponca City Monthly Plus is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. ➡️ Opt in or out of different newsletters on your “My Account” page (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/account) . ➡️ Learn more about Ponca City Monthly+ (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/about) Ponca City Monthly is a locally owned publication that delivers hyperlocal news in print and online. Like what we are doing? Feel free to forward this along and tell a friend. Sponsorship information/customer service: email [email protected] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit poncacitymonthly.substack.com/subscribe (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2)

April 16, 2026

Pioneer Technology Center Offers Education Choices

On this week’s episode of the Ponca City Monthly Podcast, Andy sits down with Terri Busch, Pioneer Technology Center’s Marketing and Communication Coordinator and a regular PCM contributor. Terri dives into her latest feature article highlighting PTC’s Partner in Progress program and this year’s distinguished honoree, Tom Riley of Tomco Metal Fab LLC. We explore what truly makes PTC a cornerstone of our community, from their diverse hobby classes to their eagle-eye focus on the evolving economy. Tune in to hear how constant innovation and facility renovations are fueling the future of workforce growth in Ponca City. Don't miss Terri’s latest article! Grab your copy of Ponca City Monthly to see how PTC and Tom Riley are shaping our community.

April 9, 2026

PCM+ Podcast: Project Hail Mary

This week on the Ponca City Monthly Podcast, Romey from Brace Books and More (https://bracebooks.indielite.org/) is back for another round of Book Talk. This week we are talking all about the biggest blockbuster movie so far of 2026, of course we are talking about Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. While the movie continues to reach new frontiers, Romey and I kick back and discuss the difference between the book and film. SPOILER ALERT if you haven’t seen the movie or read the book we give you plenty of fair warning before we discuss both our favorite parts of the book, the ending! Independent Book Store day is Saturday, April 25th, stop by Brace Books and More for all their fun activates and buy a book to celebrate! Ponca City Monthly Plus is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. ➡️ Opt in or out of different newsletters on your “My Account” page (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/account) . ➡️ Learn more about Ponca City Monthly+ (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/about) Ponca City Monthly is a locally owned publication that delivers hyperlocal news in print and online. Like what we are doing? Feel free to forward this along and tell a friend. Sponsorship information/customer service: email [email protected] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit poncacitymonthly.substack.com/subscribe (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2)

April 9, 2026

PCM+ Podcast: Project Hail Mary

This week on the Ponca City Monthly Podcast, Romey from Brace Books and More is back for another round of Book Talk. This week we are talking all about the biggest blockbuster movie so far of 2026, of course we are talking about Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. While the movie continues to reach new frontiers, Romey and I kick back and discuss the difference between the book and film. SPOILER ALERT if you haven’t seen the movie or read the book we give you plenty of fair warning before we discuss both our favorite parts of the book, the ending! Independent Book Store day is Saturday, April 25th, stop by Brace Books and More for all their fun activates and buy a book to celebrate!

April 2, 2026

Ponca City Monthly Podcast: April Issue Recap

April 2, 2026

PCM+ Podcast: April Issue Recap

On this week’s episode of the Ponca City Monthly Podcast, it’s the first of the month, which means we are joined in the studio by Editor-in-Chief Kelsey Wagner. Our latest cover features a fantastic story about the Ponca City High School LadyCat wrestlers; not only are these ladies incredible athletes and students, but they are also doing amazing things for our community. Another story we both loved this month covers the legacy of Bill Pickett, the 101 Ranch, and the Wild West Show. Our Business Spotlight focuses on Blanton Chiropractic Clinic and the vital services they provide to our area. We also spend some time discussing our local movie theater, Icon Cinema. Following the debut of our monthly book talk last month, Romey is back in the studio to discuss Project Hail Mary. Both Kelsey and I caught the film at Icon Cinema recently and had nothing but great things to say about it. We have a fantastic episode lined up this week and a full month of engaging conversations ahead Ponca City Monthly Plus is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. ➡️ Opt in or out of different newsletters on your “My Account” page (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/account) . ➡️ Learn more about Ponca City Monthly+ (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/about) Ponca City Monthly is a locally owned publication that delivers hyperlocal news in print and online. Like what we are doing? Feel free to forward this along and tell a friend. Sponsorship information/customer service: email [email protected] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit poncacitymonthly.substack.com/subscribe (https://poncacitymonthly.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2)

March 26, 2026

The Outsiders, Women’s History, and Local Lore with Brace Books & More | PCMS2E8

In this episode of the Ponca City Monthly Podcast, host Andy Hicks sits down with Romey Leonard, the new book review writer and manager at Brace Books and More here in Ponca City. We explore the powerful survivor story in Virginia Roberts’ "Nobody’s Girl" for Women’s History Month and revisit the enduring legacy of S.E. Hinton’s "The Outsiders". From the 1983 film's anniversary to the new musical in Tulsa, we discuss why these stories continue to define the Oklahoma creative landscape. In This Episode We begin by introducing Romey, who shares her lifelong passion for reading and her role managing social media and book ordering at Brace Books and More. We then dive into a deep discussion on "Nobody's Girl" by Virginia Roberts, focusing on her story of survival, advocacy, and reinvention. The conversation shifts to the Oklahoma classic "The Outsiders," where we discuss its 1983 film anniversary and Romey’s experience seeing the new musical adaptation at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. We also uncover fascinating trivia about S.E. Hinton’s time at Rogers High School and the surprising story of how a California librarian convinced Francis Ford Coppola to bring the book to the big screen. Both books featured in today’s episode are available at the back desk of Brace Books and More, so be sure to stop by and grab your copies. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Book Talks 01:18 - Meet Romey from Brace Books 02:30 - Review: Nobody’s Girl by Virginia Roberts 05:50 - The Outsiders: Film Anniversary & Musical 08:32 - S.E. Hinton and Tulsa History 11:25 - How the Movie Almost Didn't Happen 14:20 - Closing Thoughts #PoncaCity #OklahomaAuthors #TheOutsiders #BookReview #WomensHistoryMonth #SEHinton #LocalPodcast

Ponca City MonthlyPodcast

Ponca City Celebrates America's 250th Birthday

PCM+ Podcast: Which Golden Girl Would You Be In A Heist?

PCM+ Podcast: Herbs and Rodeo

PCM+ Podcast: Roots and Rodeo

PCM+ Podcast: It's May!

It's May In Ponca City, Oklahoma

PCM+ Podcast: Coach Agee Leads PCHS LadyCat Wrestlers to Success

PCM+ Podcast: Coach Agee Leads PCHS LadyCat Wrestlers to Success

PCM+ Podcast: Pioneer Technology Center

Pioneer Technology Center Offers Education Choices

PCM+ Podcast: Project Hail Mary

PCM+ Podcast: Project Hail Mary

Ponca City Monthly Podcast: April Issue Recap

PCM+ Podcast: April Issue Recap

The Outsiders, Women’s History, and Local Lore with Brace Books & More | PCMS2E8

Ponca City Monthly
Podcast