The Small Towns, Big Dreams Podcast

By Beki Waples

Let's grow together.

Welcome to our podcast spotlighting the talent and stories of small-town creators.

We offer a platform for individuals from smaller communities to share their journeys, whether t... more

FAQs about The Small Towns, Big Dreams Podcast:

How many episodes does The Small Towns, Big Dreams Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 84 episodes available.

The Small Towns, Big Dreams Podcast episodes:

December 13, 2024 52 – “You are literally becoming the master of your universe” The Body Bartender with Ayse H.
Ayse H. is a natural entrepreneur and the owner of Synergetic Bookkeeping. She has recently embarked on her passion project, The Body Bartender, where she empowers her clients to find relief and freedom in their bodies through fascia rescue.
In this enlightening episode, Ayse shares her insights into
fascia, the concept of fascia rescue, and how she’s transforming her own well-being from the inside out while helping others do the same. Her welcoming energy and profound knowledge make it easy to feel connected and inspired by her journey.
This interview left me with a fresh perspective on embracing
opportunities and a deeper understanding of the power of self-healing. I hope it resonates with you as much as it did with me!
You can find Ayse:
Cell: 416-271-4936
Website
The Big Leap – Gay Hendricks
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Katie Franklin Doula Services
Enjoy 10% Off Your Order at InstaCakeCards.com with code
‘SmallTownsBigDreams’
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Please follow Small Towns, Big Dreams on:
Instagram
Facebook
Buy Me A Coffee
Or send me an email at: [email protected]

...more
1h 6min
December 10, 2024 51- “How can I just make this gym the best gym possible, and provide the best atmosphere I can?” – Owen Sound Fitness & Training with Josh B.
When I started the podcast, my husband immediately suggested I interview Josh. He had been following Josh's journey and his gym, and was convinced he’d have valuable advice and an inspiring story to share—and he was right.
Josh has traveled the world, gaining experiences that shaped his perspective. When faced with the choice between following a conventional path or pursuing his passion, he chose the latter.
His gym, Owen Sound Fitness & Training, is a 7,000-square-foot facility that feels more like a family than a typical big-box gym. Josh has built an environment where everyone feels welcome and supported, helping even the most hesitant individuals discover joy and success in their fitness journey.
In this episode, Josh and I talk about his past, his path to owning the gym, the growth and evolution of his business, as well as health, exercise, the benefits of cold plunging, and much more. Tune in today—this episode is packed with motivation and inspiration!
Books suggested:
Rich Dad, Poor Dad – Robert T. Kiyosaki
Own The Day, Own Your Life – Aubrey Marcus
You can find Owen Sound Fitness & Training:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
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Katie Franklin Doula Services
Enjoy 10% Off Your Order at InstaCakeCards.com with code
‘SmallTownsBigDreams’
---------------
Please follow Small Towns, Big Dreams on:
Instagram
Facebook
Buy Me A Coffee
Or send me an email at: [email protected]
...more
1h 11min
December 06, 2024 50 – “You’re allowed to be different and write your own story” – Captured by Cadence with Cadence O.
I absolutely love this episode!
At just 15 years old, Cadence’s teacher recognized her talent for photography and encouraged her to turn it into a business. She began by capturing photos of her friends behind the school, which quickly grew into photographing weddings, families, birth announcements, and more. Now 18 and freshly graduated from high school, Cadence has chosen a different path than her peers—staying in Grey Bruce to run her own successful business while many of her friends headed off to college and university.
Cadence is wise beyond her years. She exemplifies the power of investing in yourself, carving your own path, and trusting your instincts. Despite facing questions about skipping post-secondary education, she confidently follows what feels right for her and her business, with a clear vision for where she’s headed.
Her story will undoubtedly inspire listeners of all ages—whether they’re just starting out or have years of experience. Cadence is truly excelling in her craft, and it’s impossible not to be amazed by what she’s accomplished so far and what lies ahead.
You can find Cadence:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
Also: Cooked Up Social
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Katie Franklin Doula Services
Enjoy 10% Off Your Order at InstaCakeCards.com with code
‘SmallTownsBigDreams’
---------------
Please follow Small Towns, Big Dreams on:
Instagram
Facebook
Buy Me A Coffee
Or send me an email at: [email protected]
...more
1h 2min
December 04, 2024 49 - "Don't wait for perfection" - Down North Garlic Co with Andrew R.
Last season, Big Mama name dropped Andrew from Down North Garlic as a must-interview. Well, I finally sat down with him, and we dove into all things garlic, small business, and what it’s like to run a thriving operation in Grey-Bruce.
Andrew didn’t grow up as a garlic farmer, but he’s now one
of the largest producers in the region! His passion for his work shines through every word as he talks about his family, his crops, and his growing business. I loved hearing about his plants and the unique products he’s creating—especially his black garlic salt. Full disclosure: since he gifted me a jar, I’ve used it on everything. It’s my new secret weapon in the kitchen – that I refuse to keep secret.
This interview is packed with insights, laughs, and some
serious garlic love. I hope you enjoy it—and make sure to visit Andrew at one of his markets to try his garlic for yourself. Trust me, once you do, you’ll want to share this flavorful secret with everyone you know!
You can find Down North Garlic Co:
Instagram
Website
Shop Black Garlic Salt (and more)
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Katie Franklin Doula Services
Enjoy 10% Off Your Order at InstaCakeCards.com with code
‘SmallTownsBigDreams’
---------------
Please follow Small Towns, Big Dreams on:
Instagram
Facebook
Buy Me A Coffee
Or send me an email at: [email protected]
...more
53min
November 30, 2024 48 - "You gotta keep your cup half full" - Thrix Salon with Amy T.
This week is an exciting one because I got to interview my
hair stylist, Amy!
I honestly can’t pinpoint when I first met Amy—small-town
life means you just know everyone. But when my sister mentioned that Amy owned her own salon, I didn’t hesitate to book an appointment - I love supporting local & people I know - but fast forward a year, and not only is she my go-to stylist, but I also had the privilege of featuring her on the podcast!
Amy shares her journey to Thrix Salon and we chat her favourite parts of owning her business, as well as it's future.
We also chat about the Berford St. Collaborative. This is a shared space with four small, female-owned businesses. They come together in downtown Wiarton to offer beauty, health, and wellness services. It’s an inspiring environment that gives these business owners the freedom to create their own vision while benefiting from the support and camaraderie of a team – to me, this sounds like the perfect mix.
Amy’s story is one for anyone who feels like their heart is
pulling them in a different direction than what they are currently doing. “I’ll be cutting hair until I’m 70,” she says with a smile, her optimism and energy filling up my small space (and any room she is ever in!).
That same energy and positivity made Amy an incredible guest and makes her an even better hair stylist. I’m so grateful to not only have her on the podcast but to call her a friend.
You can find Amy:
Instagram
Berford St Collaborative
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Katie Franklin Doula Services
Enjoy 10% Off Your Order at InstaCakeCards.com with code
‘SmallTownsBigDreams’
---------------
Please follow Small Towns, Big Dreams on:
Instagram
Facebook
Buy Me A Coffee
Or send me an email at: [email protected]
...more
53min
November 26, 2024 47- “You don’t need anyone’s permission to do what you want to do” This Mother Means Business with Laura S.
I've been following Laura and her brand, This Mother
Means Business, on social media for a while now. When I saw her on Threads (we talk about her love for Threads!) and learned she was on a mission to appear on 52 podcasts this year, I knew I had to get her on mine.
In this episode, we dive into Laura's incredible journey:
from her beginnings in marketing, to owning a CrossFit gym, to navigating a major pivot during COVID, and now running a successful business mentorship business.
Laura and I chat about everything from how childhood sports
teach resilience, managing discomfort, and embracing failure—skills that build a foundation for entrepreneurship. About the invisible load of motherhood and she shares invaluable advice on finding the right business mentor, as well as how to recognize when it’s time to seek one out – and more.
This conversation is packed with insights and inspiration.
With Laura’s impressive background and wealth of expertise, even just an hour left me feeling motivated and ready to take on new challenges.
If you’re thinking about working with a business mentor but
don’t know where to start—or if you just want to hear from an expert who truly gets it—this is the episode for you.
(PS: If you’re a podcast host, consider interviewing other
podcasters! Laura made this episode so easy to edit, either because everything she said was gold or because she knows the struggle of editing and made it a breeze for me.)
You can find Laura:
Threads
Website
Podcast
Instagram
Join her Community
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Katie Franklin Doula Services
Enjoy 10% Off Your Order at InstaCakeCards.com with code
‘SmallTownsBigDreams’
---------------
Please follow Small Towns, Big Dreams on:
Instagram
Facebook
Buy Me A Coffee
Or send me an email at: [email protected]
...more
55min
November 16, 2024 46 - “You get to be your Best Self here” Camp Celtic with Tim M.
I’m calling this a “bucket list” interview because it was an
interview I’ve been excited about for a long time. I’ve known Tim for as long as I can remember, and he’s been a constant presence through so many memories—from listening to “he shoots, he scoreeeesss” during a Strat-o-Matic Hockey game, spending several summers working in the camp kitchen, getting together for family hang outs at their place, and now, sitting down for this interview. Tim has always stood out to me as a role model for entrepreneurship and creativity.
It was an absolute honor to hear Tim’s story in his own
words—from his childhood, to the origins of the camp, to how it’s evolved into what it is today. Whether he was strumming his guitar by the campfire, driving the bus, or literally selling camp experiences in people’s living rooms like a Tupperware party (yes, really!), Tim has always embraced the challenge of wearing many hats. His journey is filled with humor, resilience, and a deep passion for making a difference, and it’s one that will resonate with anyone.
If you’ve ever been to Camp Celtic for a summer of magic, you’ll love hearing about the heart and hustle behind it all. And even if you’ve never experienced summer camp yourself, Tim’s story is packed with inspiration, motivation, and the kind of entrepreneurial spirit that will leave you feeling fired up and ready to chase your own dreams.
2025 Registration is open now!
You can find Camp Celtic:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
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Learn more about Katie Franklin Doula Services:
KatieFranklinDoulaServices.ca/
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Please follow Small Towns, Big Dreams on:
Instagram
Facebook
Buy Me A Coffee
Or send me an email at: [email protected]
...more
1h
November 12, 2024 45 - “Nobody cares, work harder” - Topp Developments with Jesse T.
I didn't know much about Jesse’s story before he reached out to be on the podcast, but I knew he had built several businesses in our town, so I didn’t hesitate to say yes. What I discovered after our conversation was that Jesse is not only incredibly knowledgeable about business and growth, but he also has an unwavering commitment to our community here in Saugeen Shores. As a new dad, he’s constantly adapting his priorities, but his dedication to supporting other small businesses, his students, and this town is deeply rooted in everything he does.
In this episode, we dive into so much: the discipline of Martial Arts, the ups and downs of running a gym, the strategies behind real estate investing, and the value of business mentors.
If you’re looking for motivation and encouragement, this episode is for you. Jesse’s insights on hard work, resilience, and adapting to challenges are inspiring, and his genuine desire to see others succeed shines through in every story he shares.
This is an episode that will leave you energized and ready
to tackle your own goals - Don't miss it!
You can find Jesse:
⁠Instagram⁠
⁠Facebook⁠
⁠Topp Performance Instagram⁠
⁠Katie Franklin Doula Services⁠
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Enjoy 10% Off Your Order at ⁠InstaCakeCards.com⁠ with code ‘SmallTownsBigDreams’
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Please follow Small Towns, Big Dreams on:
⁠Instagram⁠
⁠Facebook⁠
⁠Buy Me A Coffee⁠
Or send me an email at: ⁠[email protected]⁠
...more
1h 6min
November 08, 2024 44 - "The world is for the brave" - Bandit Creative with Beth J.
Beth, a freelance graphic designer and illustrator, is the creative force behind Bandit Creative. When I decided to refresh the podcast logo, I found Beth through Instagram and Marigold Media, and I was excited to ask if she could help. The entire process was seamless, and I was thrilled with the final result—so much so that I invited her on the podcast to discuss her business and the world of graphic design!
Since recently relocating to Wasaga Beach, Beth has been busy taking on new clients and projects, and she has no plans to slow down. We chat about the flexibility of freelancing, the supportive small-town community, her favorite projects, and much more!
You don't want to miss this one!
You can find Bandit Creative:
Linktree
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Enjoy 10% Off Your Order at InstaCakeCards.com with code ‘SmallTownsBigDreams’
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Please follow Small Towns, Big Dreams on:
Instagram
Facebook
Buy Me A Coffee
Or send me an email at: [email protected]
...more
45min
November 05, 2024 43 – “Learn how to do your skill really, really well – and then learn how to make it yours”. – Margaux Bucher Live Event Artist with Margaux B.
Margaux is one of those rare talents who instantly leaves you in awe. Even before I fully understood what a Live Event Artist does, her artistic skill was captivating, and I couldn’t wait to dive into a conversation about her creativity, her passion for art, and her journey in business. For Margaux, Southampton was her summer escape for years until she made it her home. She shares her experiences of the unique support found in small towns and the power of community. We also explore ways to nurture creativity, the value of consistent practice, and how to truly see your own creative potential.
Join us for this first Tuesday episode, and reach out to Margaux to bring her artistry to your next event ( - and then invite me too!)
You can find Margaux:
Stuffed! Hamilton - Collective Arts Event – Nov 29-30
Website
Instagram
Facebook
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Enjoy 10% Off Your Order at InstaCakeCards.com with code ‘SmallTownsBigDreams’
---------------
Please follow Small Towns, Big Dreams on:
Instagram
Facebook
Buy Me A Coffee
Or send me an email at: [email protected]

...more
54min

FAQs about The Small Towns, Big Dreams Podcast:

How many episodes does The Small Towns, Big Dreams Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 84 episodes available.

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The Small Towns, Big Dreams Podcast

FAQs about The Small Towns, Big Dreams Podcast:

How many episodes does The Small Towns, Big Dreams Podcast have?

The Small Towns, Big Dreams Podcast episodes:

FAQs about The Small Towns, Big Dreams Podcast:

How many episodes does The Small Towns, Big Dreams Podcast have?