Enter the Show-Me-Verse

Beth Wiles

Executive Director, Pulaski County Tourism Bureau & Visitors Center

Beth Wiles is the executive director of the Pulaski County Tourism Bureau & Visitors Center. The nonprofit organization is dedicated to raising awareness of and increasing visitation to Pulaski County, Missouri, located along Route 66 and Interstate 44.

Beth is an esteemed destination management professional. She graduated from the 2009 Leadership Missouri program and earned the highest certification in the destination management industry in 2013.

Jim Rowland

Division of Tourism, National Account Manager – Sports Tourism

Jim Rowland is Visit Missouri’s national account manager of sports tourism. He is well-connected with Kansas City professional sports teams and keeps a pulse on Show-Me State sports. He was an original board member of the Kansas City FIFA Committee, KC2026, which oversees strategy and delivery for FIFA World Cup 26™. He serves as the state’s liaison to the KC2026 team and speaks regularly about the World Cup’s impact on the state.

Jim previously served as the executive director of the Jackson County Sports Complex Authority, the home of the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas City Royals.

Jenny Wilson

Vice President of Tourism Development, Visit KC

Jenny Wilson brings over 25 years of industry experience to her role, leading efforts in international tourism and destination development. She has led teams focused on driving economic impact through sales, built strategic community partnerships and played a key role in elevating Kansas City’s reputation as a premier travel destination.

Jenny is driven by a deep commitment to connecting people to the city she loves, and her passion for Kansas City is evident in everything she does.

Scott Pauley

A seasoned tournament angler spanning over four decades, Scott Pauley honed his skills in the Missouri outdoors. Scott has served as Visit Missouri’s Outdoor Ambassador since 1992. In this role, he works with the media and participates in public speaking engagements. He also educates visitors about the Show-Me State’s unique and diverse hidden gems and destinations.

Johnny Leach

Executive Chef, Hotel Kansas City

Hotel Kansas City’s executive chef, Johnny Leach, has been named a 2025 James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef: Midwest for his work at The Town Company. Known for his hyper-seasonal, locally driven approach, Leach blends rustic roots with refined techniques. His culinary journey spans Oregon to NYC’s Momofuku and Del Posto, now rooted in Kansas City where he crafts inventive, welcoming menus inspired by the region’s flavors and native plants.

Helen Jo Leach

Executive Pastry Chef, The Town Company

Hotel Kansas City’s executive pastry chef, Helen Jo Leach, has been nominated for Outstanding Pastry Chef in the 2025 James Beard Awards. She leads desserts at The Town Company, the Lobby Café, and events, blending Midwestern flavors with creative hearth techniques. A Momofuku Milk Bar alum with roots at Eleven Madison Park, Leach also mentors local youth through Operation Breakthrough, believing in food’s power to inspire and build community.  

Annette Alden

Marketing Director, Missouri Wine and Grape Board

Missouri Wine and Grape Board supports and promotes the state’s eight wine trails, 116 wineries and 1,800 acres of grapes. Known for its beautiful views and quality wines, the Show-Me State’s historic wine country is one of the oldest in the nation.

Annette Alden helps consumers discover elevated wine experiences and Missouri’s unique varietals.

David Weglarz

Owner, StilL 630

David Weglarz is the founder and distiller at StilL 630, which is named in honor of the place where it planted its roots: St. Louis. He founded StilL 630 in 2011, which marries his passion for whiskey, gin and rum to his love of sharing great spirits with friends. Since then, StilL 630 has become the most-awarded distillery in Missouri and one of the top distilleries in the country.