In this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams sit down with Greg Reed from Mandela Gardens in Marion, Illinois. Greg shares his life story, from growing up in Greenfield, Illinois, to his time in the Army, and eventually becoming a teacher and founder of Mandela Gardens. The conversation delves into the creation and evolution of Mandela Gardens, touching on the challenges and triumphs Greg faced in transforming his passion for gardening into a unique community space. The episode also discusses the support received from local organizations, the role of Ethos' classes, and future plans for Mandela Gardens. Listeners will gain insights into rural entrepreneurship, community engagement, and the importance of following one's passion. Special mentions include the support from various sponsors and collaborators, as well as the role of workforce development group Manon.00:00 Introduction and Hosts00:49 Introducing the Special Guest: Greg Reed01:08 Greg Reed's Background and Journey03:03 Mandela Gardens: The Concept and Evolution04:43 Transition from Teaching to Gardening06:59 Building and Expanding Mandela Gardens10:46 Events and Community Engagement15:20 Support and Learning from Ethos19:40 Challenges of Staffing and Workforce Development19:59 Personal Experience with Workforce Programs21:03 The Role of Manon in Business Support24:26 Weddings and Event Hosting at Mandela Gardens25:30 Future Plans for the Rental House27:18 Marketing and Online Presence32:58 Community Involvement and Volunteer Support34:11 Engaging the Next Generation36:17 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.mandalagardens.org/

Balancing Family, Community, and Business with Syhemia Gray-Cruz of Honeybeez Snowballz

In this episode of Small Town Big Business, co-hosts Deb Barnett and Russ Williams explore the journey of Syhemia Gray-Cruz, the founder of Honeybee Snowballz. Originating from Kankakee, Illinois, Syhemia pivoted from a career in education to starting her own business during the COVID-19 pandemic to engage her children. Syhemia shares how she integrates math and science into the business, ensuring her children's involvement. The episode delves into the origins of the business name, inspired by her grandfather, and the unique New Orleans-style snowballs they serve. Syhemia also highlights the challenges she faced, the community involvement, and the importance of balancing family and business. The conversation emphasizes the significance of giving back to the community and finding one's passion. Finally, Syhemia encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to take action on their ideas and pursue their dreams.

00:00 Welcome and Introductions

01:01 Meet Syhemia Gray: The Inspiration Behind Honeybeez Snowballz

01:35 From Education to Entrepreneurship

02:26 The Birth of Honeybeez Snowballs

04:41 Innovative Snow Cones: A Family Affair

12:51 Community Engagement and Business Growth

15:07 Lessons Learned and Teaching Moments

15:25 Challenges of Registering an Old Camper

17:11 Preparing for Events and Managing Stress

18:27 Expanding the Business and New Opportunities

21:09 Community Engagement and Healing Illinois Grant25:16 Funny Stories and Memorable Moments

26:52 Balancing Business and Family

28:59 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

30:30 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.facebook.com/honeybeez.snowballz

🎙 Small Town Big Business Ep. #133 — Silkworm, Inc.: Building a National Brand from a Basement in Murphysboro , Illinois.In this episode, co-hosts Deb Barnett and Russ Williams sit down with Cheryl Endres and Shaad Schubert from Silkworm, Inc., a Southern Illinois staple in screen printing and promotional products since 1981. From humble beginnings in a basement to a 30,000+ square-foot facility serving clients nationwide, Silkworm’s story is packed with lessons in growth, culture, succession planning, and next-level customer service.Tune in to hear how this company has built a legacy by putting people first — both employees and customers — and why they never give clients a reason to go elsewhere.Recorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTOur guest: https://www.silkwormink.com/00:00–02:30 — Intro & Origin Story02:30–08:30 — Culture, Team & Longevity08:30–13:00 — Customer Service & Products13:00–18:00 — Growth, Expansion & Community18:00–26:00 — Succession Planning & Leadership26:00–33:10 — Legacy, Mission & What’s Next

In this episode of 'Small Town Big Business,' host Russell Williams, Director of Ethos, sits down with Samantha Dahmer of The Patch. Dahmer shares her journey from being a radiology graduate and former competitive figure skater to running a successful seasonal farm business in Marion, Illinois. She discusses the inspiration behind The Patch, the challenges of farming, the importance of agricultural education, and the role of community support. Samantha also highlights upcoming events at The Patch, including the Mum Festival, Pumpkin Season, and Christmas Tree sales.00:00 Introduction and Hosts00:49 Guest Introduction: Samantha Dahmer01:04 The Origin of The Patch03:32 Transition to Farming Life05:11 Challenges and Growth11:44 Seasonal Activities and Expansion14:01 Balancing Business and Family14:50 Balancing Business and Personal Life15:14 Support System and Team Dynamics15:55 Community Engagement and Sponsorships17:59 Challenges in Farming and Marketing19:52 Social Media Strategies20:40 Networking and Regulations22:36 Upcoming Events at The Patch25:57 Why I Do What I Do27:40 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.facebook.com/thepatchfarm24/

In this episode of 'Small Town Big Business,' hosts Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams welcome Whitney Roberts and Jade Mccalla from Idea Creative Marketing. The discussion delves into the unique business journeys of Whitney and Jade, spotlighting the challenges and successes they've encountered in the marketing industry. Whitney shares her start in Marion, Illinois, and the growth of Idea Creative Marketing, emphasizing the importance of passion and adaptability in small business marketing. Jade discusses her experiences with the American Marketing Association and the dynamic nature of their day-to-day operations. The conversation also touches on the significance of local networking, the evolution of marketing strategies, and the benefits of working with small businesses over large corporations. The episode ends with insights into their personalized approach to marketing services and the impact of community-focused growth. Special thanks to sponsors and contributors who make the podcast possible.00:00 Welcome to Small Town Big Business00:51 Introducing Whitney Roberts and Jade McCalla01:14 The Journey of Idea Creative Marketing01:35 Office Space and Community Involvement04:17 Roles and Responsibilities04:56 Background Stories and Career Paths13:12 Marketing Evolution and Strategies18:12 Team Dynamics and Strengths22:17 AMA Conference and Networking23:10 Financial Turnaround of AMA24:59 Fundraising Success Stories27:20 Challenges of Retaining Local Talent29:30 Small Business vs. Corporate Jobs34:17 Client Relationships and Onboarding41:22 Custom Marketing Solutions44:46 Passion and Motivation in Marketing48:31 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://ideacreativemarketing.com/

In this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Jennifer Olson and Russ Williams interview Sherry Barter Hamlin and Kim Barr from The Voyage Senior Living, a senior living organization in Southern Illinois. Sherry, the CEO, and Kim, the Chief People Officer, discuss their mission to provide quality assisted living, independent living, and memory care services for seniors. They highlight the organization's focus on person-centered care, the importance of community involvement, and the unique challenges and rewards of operating in a non-profit model. They also delve into their staff training, recruitment strategies, and the passionate commitment to serving residents and employees alike.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:49 Meet Our Guests: Kim Barr and Sherry Barter Hamlin02:38 The Voyage Senior Living: Services and Locations03:37 Fundraising and Charitable Programs07:54 Employee Recruitment and Training09:40 Creating a Positive Culture and Values13:28 Volunteer Opportunities and Community Engagement17:15 Handling Difficult Situations and People21:32 Challenges and Delegation26:25 Employee Dedication and Hands-On Leadership27:37 Future Plans: Independent Living and Memory Care31:05 Community Engagement and Support32:36 Resident and Employee Satisfaction40:47 Personal Stories and Passion for Senior Care46:19 Volunteer Opportunities and Fundraisers48:39 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://voyageseniorliving.com/

In this episode of Small Town Big Business, we talk with Nate Watts, founder of Revival Land Management, a growing excavation and landscaping company based in Southern Illinois. Nate shares how he turned his passion for heavy equipment and land work into a thriving business serving the Lake of Egypt area and beyond.

In this inspiring episode of Small Town Big Business, we sit down with Faith Wagner, founder of The Downtown Dip, an ice cream shop that’s scooping joy in not just one, but TWO Southern Illinois towns — Carterville and Marion!

In this episode of Small Town Big Business, we sit down with Teresa Katubig, founder and CEO of HireLevel, to explore how she built one of the most impactful workforce management companies in the Midwest—starting from a single office in Southern Illinois.

Recorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.https://members.ethosmarion.org/

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Our guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresa-katubig-03502b7/

SPECIAL 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/arcadiawealthgroup

Banterra Bank: https://www.banterra.bank/

Southern Illinois Now: https://southernillinoisnow.org/

Produced by Union Street Arts: https://www.unionstreetarts.com/

Russell Williams: https://www.facebook.com/RussellDeanWilliams/

Jennifer Olson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferolson618/

Deb Barnett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahrbarnett/

In this episode of Small Town Big Business, co-hosts Deb Barnett and Russ Williams talk with Cynde Bunch, the founder of Walker's Bluff, a multi-faceted business in Southern Illinois. Cynde shares her journey from working as a nurse to becoming a successful business owner, highlighting the development of Walker's Bluff from her grandparents' property to a major destination featuring a vineyard, restaurants, and a casino resort. Cynde discusses her persistent advocacy for changes in local laws and infrastructure to support her vision, as well as the personal challenges and triumphs along the way. She emphasizes the importance of perseverance, community support, and her passion for giving back to the local area. Cynde also teases future plans for further developments at Walker's Bluff, aiming to continue benefiting the Southern Illinois community.00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Background00:54 Introducing Cindy Bunch: Founder of Walker's Bluff01:20 Cindy's Journey into Business06:12 The Birth of Walker's Bluff12:32 Developing Walker's Bluff: From Gazebo to Concerts16:51 Walker's Bluff Casino Resort: Vision and Challenges24:38 Overcoming Challenges and Staying Motivated25:24 Supporting Local Businesses and Community26:22 The Importance of Personal Connections27:13 Giving Back to the Community29:35 Family Involvement in Business31:07 Community Support and Achievements38:03 Future Plans and Infrastructure40:43 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.walkersbluff.com/