In this episode of 'Small Town Big Business,' Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams chat with John and Missy Brown, owners of John Brown's on the Square in Marion, Illinois. The couple shares their journey from bartending to owning a cornerstone bar adored by locals and visitors alike. They delve into the history of their historic building, the challenges faced, including a considerable fire and the COVID-19 pandemic, and the community support that helped them rebuild. John gives insight into the vibrant live music scene they've cultivated, featuring renowned bands and artists. The Browns also discuss future plans like a new outdoor deck, and their philosophy of fostering a tight-knit, music-centered community in downtown Marion. The show also gives thanks to various local sponsors supporting the podcast.

This episode features the owners of Starview Vineyards, Brett and Regina Morrison, as they discuss their journey into the winemaking industry. From Brett’s humble beginnings with a summer job to learning the trade in Pennsylvania and finally establishing their vineyard in Southern Illinois, the Morrisons share insights into their business operations and community involvement. The episode also highlights the importance of local support, diversification in business, and maintaining work-life balance. Listen in to discover the challenges and triumphs of running a successful vineyard and what makes Starview Vineyards a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

In this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams sit down with Matt Throgmorton, owner of Byassee Music and Sound in Marion, Illinois. Matt discusses the extensive services his store offers, from band instruments and accessories to sound installation for churches and businesses. He shares his personal history with music, from singing in Southern Gospel quartets to working in sales before buying Byassee Music. The conversation also highlights the store's significant role in the local music community and their recent acquisition of a music store's inventory in Paducah, Kentucky. Matt emphasizes the importance of honesty, customer service, and community support as critical factors in his business success. The episode wraps up by encouraging listeners to keep their business local and support Southern Illinois’s growing music scene.

From Physical Therapy to Creative Entrepreneurship: Jennifer Colbert's Journey with Bits and Pieces Art and Antiques

In this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Deb Barnett and Russ Williams interview Jennifer Colbert, the owner of Bits and Pieces Art and Antiques located in Marion, Illinois. Jennifer shares her transition from a 27-year career in physical therapy to becoming a small business owner. She discusses her passion for hand-cut collage, the story behind her love for antiques, and the inspiration to create a community-centered business. Jennifer also talks about the importance of supporting local businesses, her experience navigating the first month of her new venture, and the unique culture of Marion’s downtown business community. The episode highlights the role of mentorship and community in fostering small business success.

00:00 Welcome to Small Town Big Business

In this episode of the Small Town Big Business Podcast, co-hosts Deb Barnett (Southern Illinois Now) and Russ Williams (Ethos) sit down with Tyler and Emily Dihle of Dihle Law Firm. Discover how this dynamic duo built their business, balanced family life, and embraced the power of authenticity to thrive in Southern Illinois.

📌 Topics Covered:

Tyler’s transition to entrepreneurship and opening Dihle Law Firm.

📍 Dihle Law Firm: https://dihlelawfirm.com

🔗 Watch More Episodes: ethosmarion.org

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🎉 Welcome to the 100th Episode of the Small Town Big Business Podcast! 🎉

In this milestone episode, we’re celebrating the incredible journey of Small Town Big Business! Host Russ Williams is joined by co-creators and co-hosts past and present, including Allison Hassler, Jennifer Olson, Deb Barnett, and guest host Joe, for a live event filled with laughs, stories, and the inspiring voices of Southern Illinois.

This special episode takes us behind the scenes of how the podcast was born over a cup of coffee at Crown Brew, the stories of 100+ local businesses who made it possible, and a look at what’s next for this growing community of entrepreneurs and small-town champions.

Tune in for: 📖 The origin story of Small Town Big Business and how it grew to highlight over 100 businesses.

A huge THANK YOU to our listeners, guests, and sponsors who have been with us on this journey! And special thanks to So IL Cinema for capturing this memorable event with their photography. 📸

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share to support local businesses and stay updated on future episodes!

Here’s to celebrating the heart and soul of small towns, and to the next 100 episodes of showcasing the incredible community of Southern Illinois! 🏘️❤️

#SmallTownBigBusiness #100Episodes #SupportLocal #CommunityFirst

n this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams sit down with John Cavaness, owner of Jackson Gray Insurance. Celebrating over 75 years in business, Jackson Gray has become a pillar of the Marion, Illinois, community. John shares his journey of returning home from St. Louis to lead the family business, the importance of community ties, and how adapting to modern technology has transformed the way they serve clients. From rebuilding after a devastating fire to navigating the challenges of a multi-generational family business, John’s insights offer a heartfelt look at resilience, legacy, and the unique advantages of doing business in a small town. Perfect for entrepreneurs, small-town advocates, and anyone interested in the stories behind enduring family businesses. Tune in for practical advice, inspiring stories, and a look into the legacy of Jackson Gray Insurance! Recorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois. https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Our guest: https://jacksonandgray.com/

Recorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois. https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Our guest: www.karinaneillphotography.com

In this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Deb Barnett and Russell Williams interview Sam Kuhnert, the founder of NubAbility, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering limb-different youth through sports. Sam shares his inspiring journey growing up in Du Quoin, Illinois, where he overcame skepticism and adversity due to his limb difference. Despite being told he wouldn't succeed in sports, Sam pursued his passion for baseball, proving his doubters wrong with hard work and resilience. His experiences, including being cut from his middle school baseball teams and battling a rare and life-threatening disease, fueled his drive to create NubAbility. NubAbility began after Sam attended a camp for limb-different kids, where he realized the importance of mentorship. Today, NubAbility hosts sports camps across the U.S., providing mentorship from limb-different athletes who encourage kids to embrace challenges. Sam credits his faith and his family, especially his mother, for instilling resilience and supporting him through difficult times. He emphasizes the value of persistence and self-belief, encouraging listeners to face obstacles directly and turn failures into steps toward success. The episode concludes with details on how to support NubAbility, including visiting their website for donations and camp information. The hosts also thank the show's sponsors and Union Street Arts for producing the podcast. Recorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois. https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Our guest: https://nubability.org/

In this episode, hosts Jennifer Olson (Director of Business Development for Marion, Illinois) and Russell Williams (Director of Ethos) sit down with Beverly Daniel Stewart, the owner of A Taste of Bev Catering & More, to explore her inspiring entrepreneurial story. Beverly shares how she turned her love for cooking into a business, the challenges she faced, and the incredible support from her family, friends, and the community.