Welcome to the Ackels Family Interview Project!

Madeleine Ackels agreed to be the first guest on the Ackels Family Interview project. In this conversation, we discuss Madeleine's love of "small things", including her current home of Salt Lake City, her year of volunteering in Micronesia, and her new artistic venture "Shards by Mads". Madeleine has never been afraid to show emotion, and she exhibits the rare skill to wear it all on her sleeve. This fun first interview is a great way to get the ball rolling on this project!

Madeleine's chosen opening song: "Lovers in Japan" by Coldplay

Hannah Ackels joins us as one of the pilot guests on the Ackels Family Interview project. In this wide-ranging discussion, Hannah describes growing up in Hurricane Country, how she chose Spring Hill, and why she loves her current job. Candid, eloquent, and smiling with every answer, Hannah beams about her two children, the patriarch of her large Louisiana family, and the piece of artwork that was personally commissioned for her home. She also discusses how the COVID pandemic has impacted the lives of working mothers. Don't miss one of the great lines in the short history of this project: "Home is a feeling, not a zip code."  

Hannah's chosen opening song: "Coming Home" by Leon Bridges.

Thomas Ackels had just put up his Christmas decorations when he joined us to be one of the first guests for this project. Thomas has done two things that most people dream about: he's moved out West, and he's started his own company with his best friend. Thomas discusses that company - Offbeat Films - and talks about how he ended up a "jack of all trades" in the Pacific North West. Honest, funny, and energetic, Thomas touches on everything from his love of Gonzaga basketball to the three instruments he plays to the unexpected ups of running a business - and the unexpected downs of living so far from home. Be sure to stick around for the end, when Thomas leaves a message for the family from 1,000 miles away.  

Check out Thomas's company at https://www.offbeatseattle.com/

Thomas's chosen opening song: "Where You're At" by Allen Stone 

The Audio is a bit choppy at the beginning due to connection issues - but this interview is a great one!

Larry Ackels' interview is broken into two parts.  In Part I, we discuss his history and life growing up, his time at St. Philips, the influence of St. Ignatius on his faith, and his high school debate record.  We also discuss his experience with the Draft during the Vietnam Era, and his reflections on his life growing up.

Larry Ackels' interview is broken into two parts. In Part II, Larry talks about his law practice with his father and siblings, as well as meeting Mary, their marriage, and their children: Edward, Andrew, Michelle, and Nicholas.  Larry also provides many great life lessons and advice to the younger generation.  At the end of the interview, Larry answers a few “Quick Hit” questions and you will enjoy his responses!