Life on the Illinois Prairie

Shane owns a website design firm, CloudCarpenter and is also a Christian missionary. He shares his concerns about cultural, institutional, and consumer-driven patterns affecting the modern church.

Bernie talks about his family history, evolving business on Western Avenue, and the evolution of the brand Celebrate Downtown Mattoon. He also discusses the annual Trunk or Treat event and the Lighted Christmas Parade.

Wendy talks about getting butterflies even in her senior years. They are not from fear or anxiety, but from joyful anticipation.

Brandon talks about his experience of joining the Illinois Air National Guard age 17 and his experience as a boom operator (in-flight refueler for combat aviation) over Afghanistan. He is helping founder and president of OHG,Rich Darby, grow the number of veterans to help give military veterans a proper military rights at their funerals.

Tara shares the importance of people donating to and shopping at the ReStore and how it funds home building projects. She also tells about the application process and the selection process for those interested in buying a Habitat home.

Wendy talks about agency and getting past other people's limitations of us.

Mattoon, Illinois native, Rob Farmer shares his DNA story and the surprising results. He gives insights for others facing the same or similar situation.

Replay: Bernie shares his family's rich history in Mattoon, Illinois, beginning with his great-grandfather. We talk about his community involvement and work with Celebrate Downtown Mattoon.

Milo left his Amish life and became a truck driver, then a social influencer. He enjoys making videos telling about Amish home remedies. He also likes educating people about Amish life and clearing up common misconceptions.

Wendy shares how a chance encounter affected her life and how the loss of that special person affected her and Stacy.