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In this episode of Rural Unrecognized, we chat with Kristin Kueber, a rural Alberta artist who has turned her love of painting into a growing business. Kristin shares how her small-town upbringing and connection to rural life have shaped her art, which captures the beauty of western and agricultural lifestyles. Her work speaks to the nostalgia and charm of country living, drawing inspiration from the world around her.

Kristin talks about how much support she’s received from her community. In small towns, neighbors and friends are often the first to cheer you on, and for Kristin, this encouragement has been key to building her confidence and success. She also highlights how this support makes rural living special, creating a sense of belonging and connection that fuels her creativity.

Kristin sees her journey as a "long game," focusing on steady progress rather than instant results. She shares how this mindset has helped her stick with her art, even during challenges. By staying consistent, building her skills, and drawing inspiration from daily life, Kristin has developed a solid process for her work. She also benefits from being part of a mentorship group where artists support and learn from each other, which has helped her grow both creatively and professionally.

In addition to her paintings, Kristin has expanded her business to include products like prints and tote bags, making her art more accessible while staying true to her rural roots. Her story is a reminder of how small-town support, hard work, and a love for what you do can lead to something amazing.

Tune in to hear Kristin’s inspiring journey and learn more about how rural communities can be a powerful force behind creativity and success.

To learn more about Kristen Kueber  Website   Instagram    Tik Tok   Facebook

Mastrius Art Mentorship Mastrius Mentorship

To learn more about Flagstaff County visit www.flagstaff.ab.ca

To learn more about the host, Amanda Wager  Amanda Wagner

This episode was produced and edited by JCE Films

For more information about staying true to your authentic self while generating revenue, visit: https://flagstaffcrafted.ca/stories/how-to-stay-true-to-your-authentic-self-while-generating-revenue/

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In this episode of Rural Unrecognized, we are joined by Andrea Kristin, an artist, author, and city mouse turned farm girl, as she shares the inspiring story behind Grey Arrow Farm. Andrea takes us through her journey of starting a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program with her husband, Dennis, and how their farm has grown into a thriving operation that brings fresh, organic produce to local families.

Andrea explains the unique benefits of CSA, from promoting healthier eating with fresh-picked vegetables to fostering community resilience and supporting the local economy. She dives into the challenges and rewards of running a farm, from the initial planning stages to the excitement of harvest time. Andrea also touches on the financial aspects of running a CSA, reducing food waste, and the importance of connecting customers with their food.

As a published author, Andrea talks about her new book Fresh Grown: The Essential Guide to Use, Store, and Make the Most of Your Vegetables, which was inspired by the questions she frequently receives from customers. The book aims to provide practical tips and knowledge for home cooks, helping them fully appreciate and utilize their fresh produce.

Andrea also shares personal insights into her family’s transition to farm life, the importance of teaching her children the values of hard work and resilience, and how she and Dennis balance running a business with nurturing their family relationships.

Tune in to hear more about Andrea's journey, the values behind Grey Arrow Farm, and how you can be part of the local food movement!

To learn more about Flagstaff County visit www.flagstaff.ab.ca

To learn more about Grey Arrow Farms visit Grey Arrow Farms

Social: Instagram   Facebook

To purchase Fresh Grown: The Essential Guide to Use, Store and Make the Most out of Your Vegetables

The Host of Rural Unrecognized  Amanda Wagner

This episode was produced and edited by JCE Films

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In this episode of Rural Unrecognized, we chat with James Boettcher, the CEO and "Custodian of Culture" at Righteous Gelato, a company that’s far more than just a gelato shop. James shares his unique entrepreneurial journey, from his early days of freelance graphic design to discovering his passion for gelato and community building. He discusses the values that guide his business, such as transparency, trust, and quality, along with his commitment to inclusivity and employee empowerment.

James also opens up about the company’s focus on using clean, real ingredients and their stringent safety standards, which have earned them global recognition for food safety. The episode delves into the challenges and triumphs of building a brand that not only makes delicious treats but also aims to enrich lives "one tiny spoonful at a time." James credits his late grandmother, Cecilia, who owned a catering business, as a key influence in shaping his approach to food and business, instilling in him the importance of hard work and caring for customers.

James will be the featured speaker at the upcoming Flagstaff Celebrate Success Small Business Gala. He promises an engaging and entertaining presentation filled with wild stories from his journey and key lessons for entrepreneurs. As someone deeply passionate about Alberta and the hardworking individuals that make rural communities thrive, James is excited to connect with attendees and share his insights.

Don’t miss the opportunity to hear James speak and celebrate the incredible impact of small businesses in Flagstaff County. Grab your tickets now and join us for an unforgettable evening!

To learn more about Flagstaff County visit www.flagstaff.ab.ca

To learn more about Righteous Gelato visit Righteous Gelato

Social: Instagram

LinkedIn: James   &  Righteous Gelato

The Host of  Rural Unrecognized  Amanda Wagner

This episode was produced and edited by JCE Films

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In this episode of "Rural Unrecognized," host Amanda chats with Kristin Graves, better known as the Garlic Goddess. Once a radiology technician, Kristin has traded in her hospital scrubs for coveralls, becoming a successful garlic farmer and author. Her new book, The Garlic Companion, is a must-have for garlic enthusiasts, packed with recipes, growing tips, and more, and is set to launch on September 17th, 2024.

Kristin opens up about her journey from the fast-paced world of healthcare to finding peace and purpose on her family farm. She talks about the struggles of managing mental health while working in a demanding job and how returning to her farming roots reignited her passion. Kristin also shares the highs and lows of farming, highlighting the importance of knowing where our food comes from and the value of supporting local farmers.

Kristin also talks about teaching others about garlic—how to grow it, cook with it, and appreciate its versatility. She shares how her work, including her garlic CSA, helps people connect with their food in a deeper way, fostering a greater appreciation for the journey from farm to table. Kristin believes in companionship over competition, seeing her role not just as a farmer, but as someone who helps others grow alongside her.

Kristin’s story is one of resilience, hope, and following your heart. This episode wraps up with a thoughtful discussion on rural life and the changing role of women in farming. Kristin's journey is a powerful reminder of how important it is to nurture both the land and the relationships we build through it.

Don’t miss this inspiring episode as Kristin shares her passion for garlic, farming, and community

To learn more about 5th Gen Gardens  Website   Instagram

To order The Garlic Companion Order Kristin's Cookbook Here

To learn more about Flagstaff County visit www.flagstaff.ab.ca

This episode was produced and edited by JCE Films

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In this episode, Amanda sits down with Jessica Hersey, the exceptional accountant behind Altitude Accounting. Jessica shares her inspiring journey from growing up in an entrepreneurial family to becoming a profit strategist and owner of her own accounting business.

They delve into the intricacies of small business finance, especially in rural areas, and how Jessica's unique approach to accounting aims to demystify finances for business owners. Drawing from her experiences, Jessica emphasizes the importance of having profitable businesses that work for us and ensuring we pay ourselves with the businesses we build.

From her insights on the oil field industry to her focus on clarity and proactive financial management, Jessica's story underscores the need for businesses, whether in a small town or big city, to serve their owners. Tune in to discover how Jessica's refreshing perspective on accounting transforms the way we engage with our finances, making it accessible, engaging, and empowering for all.

To learn more about Flagstaff County visit www.flagstaff.ab.ca

To learn more about Altitude Accounting  Website

This episode was produced and edited by JCE Films

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In this episode of "Rural Unrecognized," we chat with Laurie, the former owner of Laurie's Vintage Creations Home Decor in Viking, Alberta. Laurie's journey from a stay-at-home mom to a successful entrepreneur is a testament to the power of determination and pursuing one's passion.

Laurie shares the significant milestone she achieved in January 2024: selling her business after eight and a half years of hard work and dedication. While she now enjoys a semi-retired status, Laurie remains involved as a mentor to the new owner, ensuring a smooth transition and sharing her wealth of knowledge and expertise.

The conversation delves into the challenges Laurie faced as an entrepreneur, from renovating the shop space to managing inventory and making strategic decisions. She candidly shares the roller coaster ride of entrepreneurship, highlighting the highs and lows that shaped her journey.

Laurie's story serves as an inspiration and provides listeners with insights into the world of rural, often unrecognized entrepreneurs and the rewards that come from following one's dreams

To learn more about Flagstaff County visit www.flagstaff.ab.ca

To learn more about Laurie's Vintage Creations & Home Decor  Facebook

This episode was produced and edited by JCE Films

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In this episode of Rural Unrecognized, we sit down with Candace Patton, the founder of Sweet Three Designs, to discuss her entrepreneurial journey and the challenge of overcoming burnout.

Candace shares how her business started as a creative project with her daughters, making painted wooden earrings, and gradually grew to have products in around 40 stores across Canada. She discusses the milestone of opening her own branded retail space, and the evolution of her team as the business expanded.

Candace also opens up about a period of burnout she experienced as her business was rapidly growing and she was gearing up for a busy holiday season. Candace describes feeling completely depleted afterwards, and it taking months for her to recover and regain her footing. She emphasizes that self-care looks different for everyone, and finding what works best is key. Candace stresses the importance of entrepreneurs being proactive about their well-being, in order to avoid burnout and maintain the energy to keep their business thriving.

This conversation provides valuable insights into the challenges entrepreneurs can face, even as their businesses find success. Candace's story offers a relatable and thoughtful perspective on the realities of entrepreneurship, including the importance of self-care and resilience in overcoming burnout. Her openness about this difficult experience sheds light on an issue many business owners grapple with.


To learn more about Flagstaff County visit www.flagstaff.ab.ca

To learn more about Sweet Three Designs visit Sweet Three Designs Website

Social: Instagram

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This episode was produced and edited by JCE Films

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In this episode, host Amanda Wagner sits down with Jennifer Fossen, the Communications and Marketing Manager of the Wild Rose Co-op, to explore the inspiring work they do and their innovative program known as Flagstaff Crafted.

Jennifer shares her passion for supporting local businesses in rural Alberta and reveals how she got involved in economic development. Having worked for Flagstaff County and an urban municipality, Jennifer's journey led her to the Wild Rose Co-op, where she found an organization aligned with her values and a chance to make a real impact in her community.

Together, Amanda and Jennifer discuss the role of the Wild Rose Co-op and its dedication to the success of local businesses. They delve into the unique experience the co-op strives to create for its members, going beyond simply being an essential store. By adapting to the needs of their members, the co-op fosters a sense of community and trust, ensuring that their business model aligns with the long-term growth and prosperity of the communities they serve.

As they explore the concept of shopping local, Amanda and Jennifer shed light on how the co-op encourages community involvement beyond geographic proximity. They discuss the co-op's history, which was driven by the desire to do business differently, providing a local choice for consumers and offering fair and honest service. With a reputation built on trust and respect, the co-op continues to earn the loyalty of its members by sharing profits and inviting them to be actively involved.

Join Amanda and Jennifer in this engaging episode as they delve into the transformative power of supporting local businesses and the genuine commitment of the Wild Rose Co-op to create positive change in their communities. Discover how Flagstaff Crafted and the co-op's customer-centric approach are redefining the rural business landscape and inspiring others to reimagine the potential of rural experiences in business..

To learn more about Flagstaff County visit www.flagstaff.ab.ca

To learn more about the Wild Rose Coop visit Wild Rose Coop

Social: Instagram
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This episode was produced and edited by JCE Films

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In this episode we invite you to join us in a captivating conversation with Nikki Wiart, the owner of Lady’s Hat Farm. Nikki shares her inspiring story of transitioning from a journalist to a farmer florist, while also shedding light on the world of ethical flower farming. 

As a journalist, Nikki noticed something intriguing – young individuals with no farming background were making the bold decision to move to rural areas and start their own farms. This sparked her curiosity, leading her to explore the topic for her Masters Degree. Through interviews and travels, she uncovered some of the challenges these new farmers faced, including limited access to land, financial constraints, and the absence of the traditional mentorship that comes with a family farm.

Simultaneously, Nikki's disenchantment with the world of journalism grew. Nikki realized the  privilege of having land available to farm on and felt a responsibility to use it wisely. She decided to start her own farm. It is here, at Lady’s Hat Farm where she now grows and sells a beautiful array of cut flowers. 

Join Nikki as she sheds light on the importance of supporting local flower farmers and understanding where our flowers come from. She advocates for ethical luxury and sustainable practices in the flower industry, urging us to be mindful consumers.

To learn more about Flagstaff County visit www.flagstaff.ab.ca

To learn more about Lady’s Hat Farm visit Ladys Hat Farm

Social: Instagram

This episode was produced and edited by JCE Films

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In this episode, host Amanda Wagner engages in a thought-provoking conversation with the remarkable Doreen Blumhagen, a farmer, mental health advocate, and incredible storyteller. Together, they delve deep into the essence of rural experiences and the power of mental wellness.

As the founder of Country Road Chats, Doreen is passionate about fostering authentic and meaningful dialogues. Amanda and Doreen explore the importance of going beyond small talk and connecting on a profound level. They discuss mental health, personal journeys, and the challenges faced while growing up in a unique family dynamic. Doreen's inspiring story of embracing her differences and finding her voice will leave you feeling empowered and encouraged to prioritize your own mental well-being.

Join Amanda and Doreen on this enlightening episode of Rural Unrecognized, where boundaries are challenged and perspectives are broadened. Tune in to uncover the transformative power of genuine connections and be inspired to prioritize your own mental well-being. Let Doreen's captivating storytelling and unwavering spirit ignite your own journey of self-discovery and success.

To learn more about Flagstaff County visit www.flagstaff.ab.ca

To learn more about Country Road Chats visit Home - Country Road Chats

Social: https://www.facebook.com/CountryRoadChats    LinkedIn