Building a Travel Empire: The Journey of Mindy's Miles Travel AgencyIn this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams interview Mindy Combs from Mindy's Miles Travel Agency in Marion, Illinois. Mindy shares her journey from working as a marketing director in banking to establishing a successful travel agency. She provides insights into the value of travel agents, the growth of her business despite challenges like COVID-19, and the importance of personalized customer service. Mindy also discusses her marketing strategies, team dynamics, and future aspirations. The episode emphasizes the significance of local support, community involvement, and the rewarding aspects of turning a passion into a thriving business.00:00 Welcome to Small Town Big Business00:11 Meet the Hosts: Jennifer and Russell01:34 Introducing Mindy Combs of Mindy's Miles Travel Agency01:54 The Journey from Banking to Travel Agency02:47 The Value of a Travel Agent05:58 Growing the Business and Team11:51 Marketing Strategies and Client Relationships13:35 Challenges and Learning Experiences17:45 Support and Inspiration18:22 Family Support and New Opportunities19:09 Networking with Other Advisors20:14 The Importance of FAM Trips21:44 The Hard Work Behind All-Inclusive Resorts22:54 The Rise of Cruise Vacations25:15 Challenges and Joys of Running a Travel Business27:15 Team Dynamics and Growth32:06 Handling Travel Disruptions34:03 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationRecorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTOur guest: https://www.mindysmilestravelagency.com/

Reviving a Winery Dream: The Story of Clad & CordonIn this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams talk with Lacey Rado and Caleigh Hill. The story begins with the sisters’ surprising shift from their established careers to taking over an abandoned winery in Southern Illinois and transforming it into a vibrant business. They detail the restoration efforts including demolition, landscaping, and replanting vines. The conversation covers their operational roles, the challenges of establishing a winery in a remote location, and the importance of community connections. The episode also highlights their plans for entering the hard cider market and their dedication to making significant local contributions, from school sponsorships to organizing events. Additionally, they discuss mental shifts required for entrepreneurs and emphasize the value of adapting and continuously figuring things out. The sisters also point out the winery's efforts in creating a welcoming environment for families and pets, offering quality wines and beers, and ensuring accessibility for all visitors.00:00 Introduction and Hosts00:50 Meet the Guest Hosts01:07 Introducing the Winery Owners01:36 The Winery's History and Revival03:54 Family Background and Move to Southern Illinois08:16 Restoration and Renovation Efforts12:21 Business Challenges and Successes16:37 Roles and Responsibilities20:29 State Fair Marketing and Hospitality21:17 Award-Winning Wines22:15 Viticulture in Southern Illinois25:10 Local Connections and Community Involvement28:40 Events and Accessibility33:23 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship37:49 Future Plans and Offerings39:43 Conclusion and Contact InformationRecorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTOur guest: https://www.cladandcordon.com/

Gilead Girls: Building a Tallow-Based Skincare Business from ScratchIn this episode of 'Small Town Big Business,' hosts Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams interview Abby Jurgens and Megan Adams from Gilead Girls, a small business that produces tallow-based skincare products. Abby and Megan share the origins of their business, which started as a solution to personal health issues and evolved into a popular brand. The conversation covers their product development process, sourcing local ingredients, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and their passion for educating others on the benefits of natural products. The episode also features exciting news about Gilead Girls taking over Good Life Nutrition in Marion, Illinois.00:00 Welcome to Small Town Big Business00:50 Meet Our Special Guests: Abby and Megan from Gilead Girls01:01 The Journey of Gilead Girls: From Friendship to Business02:00 Discovering Tallow: The Healing Journey05:51 From Side Hustle to Market Success09:52 Challenges and Triumphs in Business13:38 The Healing Power of Tallow17:51 Overcoming Business Hurdles20:03 The Importance of Knowing Your Source20:48 Challenges with Pricing and Market Adaptation21:10 Expanding the Team and Overcoming Local Challenges23:22 Building Relationships with Local Farms23:58 Success in Local Stores and Community Impact25:50 Family Involvement and Entrepreneurial Spirit27:31 Future Growth and Exciting Announcements31:15 Educational Resources and Inspirations32:28 Accessing Our Products and Community Engagement36:07 Final Thoughts and GratitudeRecorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTOur guest: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093612317425SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:Watermark Auto Group: https://www.watermark.auto/Fowler Heating & Cooling: https://fowlerheatingandcooling.com/Swinford Media Group: https://swinfordpublications.com/Arcadia Wealth Group: https://www.raymondjames.com/arcadiawealthgroupBanterra Bank: https://www.banterra.bank/Southern Illinois Now: https://southernillinoisnow.org/Produced by Union Street Artshttps://www.unionstreetarts.com/

Navigating Big Business in Small Town America with Pathfinder AccountingIn this episode of 'Small Town Big Business,' hosts Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams are joined by Brendan Morgan of Pathfinder Accounting and Tax. Brendan shares insights into his specialized CPA firm that focuses on client accounting services, advanced bookkeeping, tax planning, and accounting consultancy. He discusses his journey from New York to Southern Illinois, the evolving landscape of remote work, and his passion for integrating technology into accounting practices. Brendan also explores his community involvement through the Southern Illinois Community Foundation and the Boys and Girls Club, highlighting the importance of local engagement. Additionally, the episode covers practical advice for small business owners on managing bookkeeping, automating administrative tasks, and transitioning accounting services efficiently.00:00 Welcome to Small Town Big Business00:11 Meet the Hosts: Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams00:59 Introducing Brendan Morgan from Pathfinder Accounting and Tax01:10 Pathfinder Accounting and Tax: Services and Specializations02:42 From New York to Southern Illinois: Brendan's Journey03:46 Starting a Business in Marion: Challenges and Opportunities05:52 Clientele and Services: Who Benefits from Pathfinder09:20 Community Involvement and Networking13:19 Automation and Efficiency in Business21:51 Upskilling and Workshops22:33 Bookkeeping Essentials for Small Businesses26:17 Outsourced CFO Services28:52 Community Involvement and Nonprofit Work34:37 Transitioning Bookkeeping Services36:56 The Future of CPA Profession40:20 Finding and Contacting the Business41:21 Conclusion and AcknowledgementsRecorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTOur guest: https://www.pathfinderaccounting.co/

From Haircuts to Coffee: Building a Community Hub in Small Town AmericaThis episode of 'Small Town Big Business' features Jonathan and Jolyn Raby of West Frankfort, Illinois. As hairstylists who own Berg's Hair Parlor and Gambit Coffee Bar, they share their journey of establishing these businesses in a small town. The Rabys discuss their move from Nashville, initial challenges, and eventual successes, highlighting the importance of community involvement, adaptive business strategies, and innovative thinking. They emphasize the significance of offering a creative and welcoming space that serves as a 'third place' for locals. Additionally, their commitment to supporting local arts and providing an inclusive, family-friendly environment is discussed. The episode is full of insights on rural entrepreneurship, smart growth, and the power of community connection.

00:00 Welcome to Small Town Big Business00:50 Meet Our Special Guests: Jonathan and Jolyn Raby01:20 The Journey of Berg's Hair Parlor02:52 Challenges and Triumphs in Business08:20 Expanding with Gambit Coffee Bar11:22 Community Impact and Creative Ventures14:24 Navigating Growth and Future Plans19:47 Integrating into the Local Community24:52 Music and Community Engagement26:16 Naming the Quartet: Weird Pizza26:44 Take Action Today: Community Involvement28:29 Revitalizing Downtown: Conferences and Networking33:46 Balancing Business and Family39:15 Gambit and Bergs: Names and Inspirations45:41 The Freedom of Entrepreneurship48:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Recorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTOur guest: https://www.facebook.com/burgshairparlour & www.gambit.bar

In this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams welcome AnnRae Hochheimer, the proprietor of Whimsy, Wingdings, and Wares, an eclectic art shop in Anna, Illinois. AnnRae shares her multifaceted career journey—from working in the Utah Opera Company, teaching vocal master classes, to running a restaurant—and her eventual move to Southern Illinois. She discusses the shop's unique offerings, which include handmade, upcycled, and multimedia art pieces created by a collective of local artists. The conversation also explores the community's vibrant efforts to revitalize downtown Anna and the broader Southern Illinois region, highlighting the importance of supporting local businesses and fostering artistic creativity. AnnRae also talks about the key role of technology and social media in modern marketing, the potential of AI in the arts, and the need for collaboration among local businesses. The episode concludes with AnnRae's vision for her shop and her commitment to community engagement and artistic preservation.00:00 Welcome to Small Town Big Business00:50 Introducing Our Guest: Anne Ray Heimer01:39 Exploring Whimsy, Wingdings, and Wares03:55 Anne's Journey: From Opera to Entrepreneurship05:30 Settling in Union County06:52 The Vibrant Community of Anna10:16 Showcasing Local Artists15:00 Challenges and Opportunities in the Art Business21:37 The Impact of Technology on Art23:13 AI in Marketing: Benefits and Cautions24:38 Engaging the Younger Generation in Handcrafts27:06 Resurgence of Handcrafts During COVID28:03 Interest from Older Generations in Arts and Crafts30:12 Living and Thriving in Southern Illinois35:59 Supporting Local Businesses and Tourism40:18 Future Vision and Community Involvement42:29 Conclusion and Contact InformationRecorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTOur guest: https://www.whimsywingdingswares.com/

In this episode of 'Small Town Big Business,' hosts Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams interview business partners Anne Watts and Tyler Larson, owners of Restoration & Decor in Carterville, Illinois. Anne and Tyler share their journey of starting and growing their business, which specializes in refinishing and creating custom cabinets, furniture, and epoxy countertops. They discuss the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, their passion for creativity, and the importance of upcycling and maintaining quality. The conversation highlights their deep roots in their hometown, the support from family, and the community collaboration that has helped their business thrive. The episode also provides insights into the latest trends in restoration and decor.00:00 Welcome to Small Town Big Business00:50 Meet Anne Watts and Tyler Larson01:04 The Origin Story of Restoration and Decor02:22 Creative Inspirations and Backgrounds03:54 Services Offered by Restoration and Decor05:59 The Move to a Retail Storefront08:43 Community and Networking in Carterville11:05 Challenges and Rewards of Entrepreneurship12:31 Day-to-Day Operations and Support13:33 Customer Engagement and Industry Trends14:33 Exploring the Vintage Furniture Trend15:12 Scaling the Business and Managing Trends16:01 Quality and Upcycling in Furniture16:34 Balancing Restoration and Customization17:51 Challenges and Rewards of Furniture Design18:36 Sustainability and Repurposing Materials19:35 Current Trends in Furniture Colors20:16 Favorite and Least Favorite Parts of the Job22:31 Managing Kitchen Redesigns23:51 Future Growth and Online Presence26:51 Personal Stories and Business Motivation28:03 Conclusion and Sponsor AcknowledgementsRecorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTOur guest: https://restorationanddecor.com/

Exploring Rural Banking and Entrepreneurship with Brian Gansauer of People's National BankIn this episode we interviews Brian Gansauer, the Community Bank President of People's National Bank, who shares his extensive background in banking and business. Brian discusses his upbringing in Xenia, his career path from high school teller to a leadership role in a community bank, and his entrepreneurial ventures in the rental property market. He also talks about the unique aspects of rural banking, the challenges and opportunities for entrepreneurs in Southern Illinois, and the importance of community involvement and networking. Additionally, Brian shares his personal interests, including his passion for music and his involvement in various community boards.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:30 Brian's Background and Early Career02:35 Entrepreneurial Ventures and Real Estate03:41 Transition to Banking05:23 Rural Banking and Community Impact09:07 Advice for Entrepreneurs12:55 Networking and Personal Development13:52 The Importance of Partnering for Training14:36 Cascading Training and Community Involvement15:42 Advantages of Living and Working in Southern Illinois17:23 Personal Background and Musical Journey19:11 Community and Civic Involvement21:12 Advice for Entrepreneurs and Business Owners23:22 Vision for Southern Illinois26:03 Making a Positive Difference26:40 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsRecorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTOur guest: https://www.peoplesnationalbank.com/

In this episode of 'Small Town Big Business,' hosts are joined by Glen and PJ Faith, the owners of Mermet Springs in southern Illinois. Mermet Springs is a unique dive destination and dive center situated in a former quarry between cornfields. Glen shares the history of how he transformed the site from a quarry filled with junk into a premier dive center, replete with sunken planes, buses, and other intriguing artifacts. PJ revisits her introduction to diving and the family aspect of their business, emphasizing the unique opportunity diving provides for family bonding. The episode also explores the challenges and joys of running a niche business in a rural area, the widespread reach of their clientele, and the community and global connections they've fostered through diving. Listeners get insights into what it takes to maintain a dive center, the fun stories behind their underwater features, and the transformative experiences that diving offers.00:00 Welcome to Small Town Big Business00:50 Introducing Glen and PJ Faith of Mermaid Springs01:10 The Origins of Mermet Springs02:42 Diving Adventures and Stories07:25 Maintaining and Enhancing the Quarry11:43 The 727 Airplane Story22:14 Challenges and Rewards of Running Mermet Springs22:50 Destination Diving: A Multifaceted Business24:02 On-Site Amenities and Activities24:46 Visitor Demographics and Reach26:01 Family Bonding Through Scuba Diving27:38 Marketing Strategies and Community Engagement30:25 Encouraging New Divers: Tri Scuba Experience32:49 Global Diving Adventures and Experiences34:03 Inclusivity in Diving: Age and Mobility34:40 Future Plans and Equipment Innovations35:46 Travel Stories and Favorite Destinations42:28 Getting Started with Diving: Advice and Resources43:16 Conclusion and Contact InformationRecorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTOur guest: https://www.mermetsprings.com/

SIU Athletics and Community Engagement: A Vision for GrowthIn this episode of Small Town Big Business, we sit down with Tim Leonard, Athletic Director, and Kat Martin, Senior Associate Athletic Director for Development, at Southern Illinois University (SIU). They discuss their roles and initiatives within SIU's athletic department, focusing on building infrastructure, fundraising, and community engagement to elevate the programs. The conversation covers the importance of investments in both men's and women's sports, the challenges and opportunities brought by changes in collegiate athletics, such as NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) agreements, and how SIU aims to model itself as a competitive, community-centric athletic department. They also share personal anecdotes and insights into their approach to development and outreach, including significant contributions from alumni and local businesses. The episode underscores the critical role that athletics play in community development and the economic impact on the Southern Illinois region.00:00 Welcome to Small Town Big Business00:50 Meet Our Guests: Tim Leonard and Kat Martin01:38 SIU Athletics: Building Infrastructure and Generating Revenue03:51 Tim Leonard's Journey: From Idaho to SIU06:27 Kat Martin's Return to Southern Illinois14:32 The Vision for SIU Athletics20:35 Engaging Local Businesses and NIL Opportunities22:31 Navigating Conference Alignment and Transfer Portals23:30 Strategic Investment in Sports Programs24:28 Football's Potential and Economic Impact27:00 Engaging Alumni and Building Relationships32:14 Community Support and Economic Benefits34:23 Women's Sports and Major Donations36:48 Message to Future Athletes and Coaches39:11 Financial Literacy for Student Athletes41:05 Passion for Coaching and Athletics43:01 Fun and Unique Traditions44:13 Conclusion and AcknowledgementsRecorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTOur guest: https://siusalukis.com/