On today’s show I sat down with Zionsville mayor John Stehr, who has prioritized the city’s small-town identity despite its population more than tripling this century.
A former TV journalist of 42 years and longtime WTHR anchor, Stehr was elected as the mayor of Zionsville in 2023 after running on better communication, civility, and responsible growth. He recalls his broadcasting path from Pittsburgh through multiple markets, his view of news, and why he left as media economics and opinion pressures increased.
John explains how serving on the parks board revealed communication gaps that motivated his campaign, including knocking on over 5,000 doors and focusing on listening.
As mayor, his priorities include improving traffic and emergency access near the Brick Street area with a planned double-roundabout realignment, managing rapid population growth while preserving Zionsville’s charming character, supporting housing needs, and backing community projects like parks improvements, a youth advisory council, and a Watch Us Farm initiative for adults with developmental disabilities.
If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast.
You are going to learn about:
Door-to-Door Campaigning
Responsibilities of Being a Mayor
The Watch Us Farm Initiative
Thank you to our partner:
NCW
Check out these great clips from the show:
01:19 Guest Introduction: John Stehr, Zionsville Mayor
02:42 Broadcasting Roots and Career Path
03:51 Night Beat and Garfield Story
05:26 CBS to WTHR and Leaving News
07:52 Journalism as Public Service
12:40 Why He Ran for Mayor
15:16 Campaign Trail Door Knocking
17:19 Listening and Being Heard
22:03 First Priorities Traffic Fixes
23:56 Growth and Brick Street Identity
25:44 Downtown Zoning No Chains
28:24 New Developments The Farm and 106th
32:57 My Sugar Pie Surprise
34:06 Favorite Zionsville Eats
35:05 Food Spots and Vibes
36:04 Big Dave’s Deli Discovery
37:22 Festivals and Lincoln History
40:27 Mayor Advice on Growth
44:01 Schools and Future Vision
46:09 Responsible Development Plans
47:42 Mayor Life and Public Service
50:43 Road Project and Brick Streets
52:53 Youth Council and Civic Pride
55:37 Floodplain Park Legends
56:43 Why Indiana Feels Like Home
59:09 Traditions and Therapy Dog
01:03:30 Hidden Gems
