Loneliness is a big deal, and it’s become an actual epidemic. And, while it may seem simple to combat (the opposite of loneliness is belonging and community, right?), creating belonging and community can actually be much harder. This is what Emma McIntyre is all about. She builds events that create belonging — from farmers markets to winter festivals to senior socials — and this episode is all about how small towns can replicate these ideas at any scale by focusing on comfort

This episode dives into the amazing creative journey of Tesa Klein, the cowgirl-turned-entrepreneur behind Wildflowers, who rebuilt her business after years in the rodeo world and rediscovered her spark. She’s deeply rooted in rural (she lives in a NoDak town of 50!) but has had her share of big-time viral moments. It’s an inspiring look at trusting yourself even when your dreams don’t seem to match your zip code, and we love hearing her take on balance and dreaming big from

In this episode, we sit down with “Oakes Folks” Jackie Knutson and Lisa Schulz, a mother–daughter duo who represent two generations deeply invested in their hometown. They talk about leaving and returning, building belonging, showing up for community, navigating change, and why small towns need to both embrace the future and remember the past in order to thrive. It’s a heartfelt, grounded conversation about loving where you live, even when it’s not perfect. About Jackie and L

This week, we’re chatting with an amazing human about amazing stuff. Okay, fine, every week we talk with amazing humans about amazing stuff, but this episode is a great one. Rebecca visits with Ashley Geigle, Economic Development Director for Murdo, South Dakota, about how she built a brand-new role from scratch. (Like, from scratch, like growing and milling the wheat for the flour level of scratch, not box mix scratch.) Ashley talks about learning through challenges, buildin

Sometimes things are rough, whether it’s for a little bit, a season, or longer. This episode is straight from our founder and leader, and she’s sharing reflections and encouragement for anyone who’s felt exhausted, uncertain, or overwhelmed by the weight of showing up for their community or business. It’s lovely work, but it can also feel heavy and lonely, so if you’ve ever felt that way, this episode is for you. In this episode, you'll hear: That your energy is a limited res

We are kicking off the second part of Season 5 with a bang and sharing one of the coolest programs we’ve had the pleasure of learning...

The “Returner” phenomenon is a very real thing: people leave their small towns as young people and come back later when they’re ready to...

Joy can feel a little soft, or a little touchy-feely, but helping people find joy is a catalyst for positive change. This week’s guest is...

One of our favorite things is the impact of great employers on individuals, small towns, and the overall culture of the communities they...

Friends and neighbors (virtual and IRL): we are so excited to share this episode with you. Now, we know we say that every week, and what...

Our last Moments of Growth episode is about another event that will become at flagship bit of programming for Growing Small Towns: the...

This week’s episode is the first in a limited series we’re calling “Moments of Growth.” We had some big milestones this year, and we...

It’s really easy to give people the highlight reel and act like everything is all hunky-dory, but that wouldn’t be authentic, and we’re...

Mental health is something we’re incredibly passionate about here at Growing Small Towns, which most of you likely know by now given how...

When we last talked to Haley, she was pushing full steam ahead on building the beautiful Hearthside Vineyard & Winery. She’s still going...

Merry, merry Christmas and the happiest of New Years to you, dear listener! Instead of bringing on a guest to end the year (or kick off...

Today’s guests are repeat visitors! Brodie Mueller and Carly Pochop, founders of The Market on the Plaza and the Rural Revolution podcast...

Rebecca is flying solo today with something that’s been on her heart and mind for a long time. In February, Rebecca and her family went...

We’re back with Brodie and Carly of the Rural Revolution Podcast for a general life and status update! If you missed the first episode...

When you meet today’s guest, Charissa Rubey, you’ll likely be charmed by her salt-of-the-earth friendliness and unassuming nature. But...