The SMSU Podcast

This episode celebrates Global Entrepreneurship Week with guests Marsha Grimes-Rose, Assistant Professor in SMSU’s NorthStar School of Business, and the Associate Director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). They dive into:

It’s an inspiring conversation about fostering creativity, leadership, and business growth in Southwest Minnesota.

In this episode, Jamie and Wesley review all the events happening on campus related to SMSU’s International Education Week celebration.

The week kicks off on Monday, November, 17th with an International Potluck starting at 4 PM and Tuesday through Thursday each night a student has put together a presentation representing their home country, Nepal: Tuesday, November 18 at 4:00 PM, Malawi: Wednesday, November 19 at 4:00 PM, Jamaica: Thursday, November 20 at 4:00 PM, Mali: Thursday, November 20 at 4:30 PM and the final night of the event will be the International Gala running from 6-11 PM and tickets are $20 or $150 for a whole table!

Wesley also discusses his experience studying abroad in Taiwan and how students can experience studying abroad through SMSU.

In this episode, Tony Nubile, SMSU’s Director of Facilities, drops by to chat about the recent floor repairs in the RA Facility. He shares what sparked the project, how the team approached it, and what goes into maintaining campus spaces as safe and functional as possible. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the kind of work most people don’t see—but definitely benefit from.

Tony also discusses how the Facilities crew works around student schedules to complete tasks with minimal disruption. It’s a great reminder of the care that goes into maintaining the spaces we all use every day.

This episode features Professor of Theatre and Costume Designer Sheila Tabaka and SMSU theatre student Caleb, who discuss the university’s upcoming production of Pride and Prejudice and Sleepy Hollow. The conversation explores:

Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at the dedication and artistry that go into bringing this timeless story to life on campus.

Sleepy Hollow will be performed on October 31 and November 1, 2025

Pride and Prejudice's performance is on November 12, 13 & 14 at 7:30 PM

with special music by harpist, Caroline Koska, on Nov. 12, 14, 15

SMSU Fine Arts Theatre

In this episode, Dr. Daniel Rieppel previews the upcoming Southwest Minnesota Orchestra concert, highlighting the musical selections and themes that will shape the performance. He discusses the significance of the featured composers, the emotional and historical context behind the music, and what audiences can expect from this season’s opening concert.

The episode also celebrates Dr. Rieppel’s 25th anniversary as the orchestra’s musical director and reflects on his recent Emmy Award recognition alongside a former SMSU student. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at one of Southwest Minnesota’s most anticipated cultural events.

In this episode, Charlotte Wahle, Director of Admissions at SMSU, joins the show to ease the worries of going through the college admissions journey. Whether you're a high school student, parent, or educator, this conversation offers valuable insights into:

Charolette shares her passion for helping students find the right fit and encourages listeners to explore all that SMSU has to offer.

The SMSU Creative Writing and English Program hosts prominent authors on campus as part of its ongoing Visiting Writers Series. This semester, SMSU is proud to welcome Heid E. Erdrich for a public reading on Wednesday, Oct. 15, at 7:00 pm in Charter Hall 201. Erdrich is the author of nine books of poetry and prose as well as a teacher and curator.

Her reading is the first installment of the visiting writer series for the 2025-26 academic year. The series is coordinated by Jessie Hennen, Director of Creative Writing and Literature at SMSU. The reading is free and open to the public.

Homecoming 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting celebrations yet at Southwest Minnesota State University! In this episode, Hannah Abel, Director of Alumni Relations and Outreach, joins us to preview the full slate of events happening on campus.

🏟️ Highlights include:

For the full lineup for homecoming, go to: https://www.smsualumni.com/homecoming/homecoming-schedule.html

Whether you're a student, alum, or community member, this episode is your guide to making the most of Homecoming weekend. Join us as we celebrate tradition, pride, and the vibrant spirit of SMSU!

This week, SMSU highlights Cecelia Parmeter, a dedicated Culinology student, who shares her experience helping launch this semester's Mustang Kitchen on campus. The episode explores:

Make sure to reserve your spot! Click the link below to sign up for your favorite dish. https://www.smsu.edu/academics/programs/hospitality/restaurant/index.html

This week, we have Ashton Ayres, Assistant Director of the Student Center at Southwest Minnesota State University, join us to talk about Family Weekend and other exciting campus events. Ashton highlights the variety of activities planned for students and their families, including:

The episode also touches on the broader role of the Student Center in organizing and supporting student engagement throughout the year. Ashton touches on how these events foster a sense of belonging and Mustang pride among students and their families.