Advertise on podcast: Rural Revival

Join me for an update about the future of Rural Revival. SHOW NOTESSmall Town Dreamer book: https://amzn.to/42cKSot The Farm Letters: thefarmletters.com MORE FROM RURAL REVIVALWEBSITEINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK

Join me for a special episode of the Rural Revival podcast where I’m sharing details about my NEW BOOK — Small Town Dreamer — plus some other fun announcements! SHOW NOTESBook tour and stockist sign up: https://www.ruralrevival.co/book Town rebrand details and application: https://www.brandedbyruralrevival.co/townrebrand MORE FROM RURAL REVIVALWEBSITEINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK

Today we’re taking you to the charming little town of New Glarus, Wisconsin (pop. 2,208) where craftsmanship, community, and a whole lot of heart come together. I’m sitting down with Tim and Morgann Boettner of A Well Worn Story, a husband and wife team with a business that’s all about high-quality, handcrafted leather and canvas goods. What started with just $5,000 and some spare time has grown into something truly special — a blend of online hustle and a brick-and-mortar storefront where they make everything by hand. In this episode, we’re diving into their journey: how they expanded from an online shop to opening a storefront with a workshop in the back, the way they’ve curated a space that’s as beautiful as their products, and why balancing online and in-store sales has been a winning combo for them.  We’ll talk about their new private-label collaborations with other small businesses, how customer feedback sparked fresh ideas for their product line, and why they’re so passionate about the slow fashion movement — because quality matters.  Tim and Morgann are also sharing the keys to their longevity in business, how they’ve teamed up as husband and wife to make it all work, and what’s changed in New Glarus since we last caught up.  From their love for historic buildings to the wild adventure of entrepreneurship, they’re keeping it real — staying true to their brand, their values, and their faith.  Their story is a testament to the power of quality, adaptability, and staying true to who you are, all while building something that lasts in a world that’s always changing! Check out more on the blog. SHOW NOTESNew Glarus, WisconsinNew Glarus Brewing FOLLOW A WELL WORN STORYINSTAGRAMFACEBOOKPINTERESTWEBSITE FARM DINNER EVENT KITIf you're thinking about hosting your own farm or ranch dinner this summer, our Farm Dinner Event Kit has everything you need! This kit covers every part of your planning — from organizing volunteers to ticket sales to creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. And of course the tips and tricks we’ve learned along the way! We’ve designed this to help save you time, streamline the details, and make things as easy as possible for you. And it's on sale for this month only! Go to ruralrevival.co/farmdinner for all the details. MORE FROM RURAL REVIVALWEBSITEINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK

On today’s episode we're with Paige Heaton of No Roots Boots in Edelstein, Illinois (pop. 1,060). Join us at the Berch House, the charming headquarters of No Roots Boots, where we catch up with the visionary behind the brand, Paige Ehnle Heaton. This episode delves into the journey of No Roots Boots, highlighting the growth, challenges, and community collaborations that have shaped the business since our last conversation. Paige shares insights into why she enjoys working with other small businesses, the importance of community, and key strategies and decisions that have propelled No Roots Boots from its early days to its current success, plus what brought about some recent changes in her business and some fun, new things on the horizon. You’ll love hearing about the incredible brand that Paige has built, and her willingness to ask herself the hard questions and to make changes in her business to better serve her life goals! Check out more on the blog. SHOW NOTESEdelstein, IllinoisHandlebend FOLLOW NO ROOTS BOOTSINSTAGRAMFACEBOOKWEBSITE MORE FROM RURAL REVIVALWEBSITEINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK

Today we're with Carli Ullrich of Rural Grit Co. out of Kiron, Iowa (pop. 257). Carli shares her journey of starting her business at just 16 years old while still in high school, how she expanded her product line, and the importance of consistency in growing her brand. Carli also reflects on her unique approach to business, explaining why she enjoys traveling to meet customers over having a brick-and-mortar store — at least for the time being — and how she finds ways to serve her customers' individual needs. You’ll love how Carli has grown this business and the joy she finds in connecting with people, whether it's customers or other boutique owners at events. If you're looking for a fun experience to add to your next event, Rural Grit Co. would be a great pop up to add to the mix! Find Carli at the links in our show notes, and be sure to go give her a follow.  Check out more on the blog. SHOW NOTESKiron, IowaGeneva MarketRural Route Ramble FOLLOW RURAL GRIT CO:INSTAGRAMFACEBOOKTIKTOKWEBSITE MORE FROM RURAL REVIVALWEBSITEINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK

Today kicks off a brand new season of the podcast, and as announced, this year we are going back to interview some of the people and businesses featured in our first episodes to find out what they’ve been up to since then! Who better to start off with than Michelle Myers of Dirt Road Candle Co in Lewis, Iowa (pop. 357)? I first talked to Michelle back in 2019 when her candle business was still a side hustle. Fast forward to today, and Michelle has not only made her dream a full-time reality, but she’s built an incredible brand, expanded her shop, and even hosted farm-to-table dinners on her farm. In today’s conversation, we’ll dive into how she made the leap to entrepreneurship, the importance of protecting her creativity, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. You’ll hear about the power of community, her evolving style, and how she’s crafted a brand that truly reflects her rural roots. Michelle’s journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible with hard work, creativity, and a strong community.  So grab your favorite candle, sit back, and enjoy this inspiring conversation with Michelle Myers of Dirt Road Candle Co. And be sure to stick around until the end, because we have two very exciting announcements for you! Check out more on the blog. SHOW NOTES2019 InterviewLewis, IowaFaire FOLLOW DIRT ROAD CANDLE CO:INSTAGRAMFACEBOOKTIKTOKWEBSITE AFTER THE EPISODEIf you’re inspired by Michelle’s story and want to dive even deeper into how to apply some of these strategies to your own business, make sure to check out our new bonus episode. I’ll be breaking down the key takeaways from today’s interview and sharing actionable steps you can use to level up your own hustle. From setting goals to building a brand that feels truly you, it’s packed with practical tips and insights. So, after you finish here, head over to After the Episode — you won’t want to miss it! MADE RURAL PODCASTWe're launching a brand new podcast called Made Rural. Are you ready to step into the purpose God has uniquely designed for your life? Whether you're chasing a dream, starting a business, or simply longing to make a meaningful impact, it’s time to move beyond your comfort zone and take bold action. The Made Rural podcast is a space where we dive into how to embrace your God-given calling, overcome fear, and step into the life you were created for. In each episode, we’ll explore practical steps, powerful stories, and biblical inspiration to help you trust in the purpose God has placed in your heart. ✨ God has uniquely equipped you with talents, wisdom, and a heart to make a difference—and the world needs what you have to offer! 🔑 Tune in now to the first episode of Made Rural and get ready to take the first step toward living out your purpose! 👉 Make sure to check out Made Rural at maderural.co and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. Don’t miss out on what God has in store for you. This is your moment—let’s make it count. MORE FROM RURAL REVIVALWEBSITEINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK

On today podcast episode we're with Michelle Hamilton of Dandelion Naturals in Hayfield, Minnesota (pop. 1,340). After 21 years in nursing, Michelle took a leap of faith two years ago and started making all natural soap and selling at farmer's markets. This business that started in her kitchen has now grown into an extensive product line and its own main street commercial building. We're talking about how she's managed growth in a business that has exploded almost overnight, the importance of being passionate about what you do, keeping the right mindset, and more. It's mind-blowing how quickly this business has grown and we couldn't be happier for Michelle and her family. It's going to be fun to see their new building come to life as a storefront, too, so be sure to go give Dandelion Naturals a follow to see this come together. And if you're looking for a great Christmas gift, Dandelion Naturals has so many great all natural gifts! You'll find this and other ideas on our Rural Makers + Creators Gift Guide. Check out more on the blog. SHOW NOTESHayfield, MinnesotaMarigold Days FOLLOW HANDLEBEND:INSTAGRAMFACEBOOKWEBSITE BRANDED BY RURAL REVIVALWe've got a SALE coming your way! It's our black Friday sale where we offer our website design kits at HALF OFF! Here’s why people love our website design kits… they're easy to edit, fully customizable, and they're 100% DIY. This means that with the help of our tutorial videos, you'll learn step by step how to edit on your own so you can have the freedom as a small business owner to update your own website whenever you need. It's truly a win/win for you and your business. We only do this sale once a year, so don't miss out! Go to brandedbyruralrevival.co to find the design kit that's right for you! MORE FROM RURAL REVIVALWEBSITEINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK

On today’s episode of the Rural Revival podcast we're with Matt Dennis and Michael Stepp of Handlebend in O'Neill, Nebraska (pop. 3,575), where they make handcrafted copper mugs and use their space to bring new creative and entrepreneurial ideas to life. They're sharing how the resurgence of the moscow mule inspired an accidental business that brought them back to their hometown. Plus, how they’ve navigated an ever-changing business, how they refined their process and streamlined production, the move to their current building and their vision for this big space, and what it means for their small town to have this kind of space to build community. These guys have built an incredible business these guys have built! You’ll love their focus on community and their intentionality around expanding and growing this business. This is a fantastic episode and I know you're gonna be inspired! I know there's so much more to come from Matt and Michael, so be sure to go give them a follow. And if you're looking for a great Christmas gift, a Handlebend mug makes for a great gift! You'll find this and other ideas on our Rural Makers + Creators Gift Guide. Check out more on the blog. SHOW NOTESO’Neill, NebraskaOmaha World Herald Feature StoryNormal Roasting Company FOLLOW HANDLEBEND:INSTAGRAMFACEBOOKXWEBSITE BRANDED BY RURAL REVIVALWe've got a SALE coming your way! It's our black Friday sale where we offer our website design kits at HALF OFF! Here’s why people love our website design kits… they're easy to edit, fully customizable, and they're 100% DIY. This means that with the help of our tutorial videos, you'll learn step by step how to edit on your own so you can have the freedom as a small business owner to update your own website whenever you need. It's truly a win/win for you and your business. We only do this sale once a year, so don't miss out! Go to brandedbyruralrevival.co to find the design kit that's right for you! MORE FROM RURAL REVIVALWEBSITEINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK

On today's episode we're with Jordan Classen of Classen Land & Cattle and Classen Mercantile out of Albion, Nebraska (pop. 1,703), and we're talking all about what it takes to start and grow a beef business from the ground up. Jordan and her husband Travis are building their dream together and bringing their vision for their farm and business to life — which started with three head of cattle — and now has their beef finding its way to tables around the country and in their local schools. Jordan has worked hard to incorporate an entirely local beef program in those schools! She also talks about how she's betting on herself, the importance of farmers’ markets and why we need to support them, and how she's using this business to impact consumers.  And here's something fun, we actually got to help build the Classen Mercantile website when Jordan attended one of our Brand Camp events a few years back. If you're in need of a website or other branding, we want to help. Branded by Rural Revival is our rural design studio where we are helping small business owners and small towns with websites, design, marketing assets, brand kits, and more. Our #1 goal is to help provide the tools you need to succeed as a small business owner or small town — and help you build a brand that you love. If you want to learn more or check out some of our latest work, go to brandedbyruralrevival.co. You’ll love Jordan's heart for agriculture and all the amazing things she’s doing with this business! And as we start to think about the Christmas season, which will be here before we know it, Classen Mercantile is now taking prime rib orders and will be shipping as soon as they get their restock in around November 15! They will also be offering jerky and beef sticks this Christmas. If you're local to Albion area, you can stop by their beef store on the first Saturday of the month from 10-2 or also by appointment. Check out more on the blog. SHOW NOTESAlbion, NebraskaHumphrey, NebraskaBellevue Farmers’ MarketSunday Farmers’ MarketLocal Foods for Local Schools FOLLOW CLASSEN MERCANTILE:FACEBOOKINSTAGRAMWEBSITE BRANDED BY RURAL REVIVALHere's something fun - we actually got to help build the Classen Mercantile website when Jordan attended one of our Brand Camp events a few years back. If you're in need of a website or other branding, we want to help. Branded by Rural Revival is our rural design studio where we are helping small business owners and small towns with websites, design, marketing assets, brand kits, and more. Our #1 goal is to help provide the tools you need to succeed as a small business owner or small town — and help you build a brand that you love. If you want to learn more or check out some of our latest work, go to brandedbyruralrevival.co. MORE FROM RURAL REVIVALWEBSITEINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK

On today's episode, photographer Stacy Preston is showing us how a creative business IS possible in a small town. Based out of Lynchburg, Tennessee (pop. 6,742), Stacy is sharing her love for photography as a way to preserve history, and how she has turned a lifelong hobby and dream into a profitable business. We're talking about how she found her style, combining creativity and business, and how her family has inspired her mission. You’ll love the heart behind Stacy's business and her take on photography! If you're thinking about getting started as a small town photographer, there's a link to some of Stacy's favorite gear in our show notes, so be sure to go check that out and give her a follow! Check out more on the blog. SHOW NOTESLynchburg, Tennessee FOLLOW STACY PRESTON PHOTOGRAPHYFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMWEBSITE BRANDED BY RURAL REVIVALDo you love your branding? Like really love it? If you love your business, but are not in love with your branding, we want to help change that for you. Branded by Rural Revival is our rural design studio where we are helping small business owners and small towns with websites, design, marketing assets, brand kits, and more. Our #1 goal is to help provide the tools you need to succeed in the best way possible as a small business owner or small town — so you can finally have a brand that you love. If you want to learn more about how we can help you, or check out some of our latest work, go to brandedbyruralrevival.co. MORE FROM RURAL REVIVALWEBSITEINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK

Today on the podcast we're with Taylor Borkowski of The Cottage in Denison, Iowa (pop. 8,172). Taylor and her mom bought out an existing business in January 2020, only to shut down six days after their open house celebration due to covid. It's been a wild ride, and Taylor's sharing how they overcame the covid challenges, brought a massive change to their product line, filled a gap in the community, and recently moved locations. She also talks about her involvement with the community, which includes hosting community events that incorporate a diverse population, and you'll see why she was voted Volunteer of the Year! If you live near western Iowa, you’ll want to put these upcoming events on your calendar: Fall Frenzy — October 9, 4-8 pm Christmas at The Cottage — October 28 (private ticketed event) Holiday Open House — November 14-17 Recipe Walk — November 17, 1-4 pm Taylor also used our Farm Dinner Event Kit for their recent farm to table celebration. If you're thinking about bringing a farm to table dinner to your community, this is a great resource for you! Check out more on the blog. SHOW NOTESDenison, IowaHot Summer NightsWomen in Business Impact OrganizationFarm-to-Table Event KitVan Houten AcresChamber & Development Council of Crawford County FOLLOW THE COTTAGEFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMWEBSITE BRANDED BY RURAL REVIVALDid you start out the year with big brand goals but still haven't found the time to work on those? If that's you, we've still got over three months left in the year and we can help make this happen for you through Branded by Rural Revival — our rural design studio that specifically focuses on helping small businesses and small towns. From websites to logos, marketing assets, course building, and podcast setup, we are ready to help you build a brand you love. Find out more and check out our latest work at brandedbyruralrevival.co. MORE FROM RURAL REVIVALWEBSITEINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK

Today on the podcast we're with Josh and Sara Holmquist of Normal Roasting Company in Burwell, Nebraska (pop. 1,079). In this episode you'll find out how Josh and Sarah bought a coffee company on a whim and grew it from a hobby to what is now multiple businesses. They talk about how they dealt with overwhelming growth, building an iconic brand, scaling your business in the early years, plus the wholesale side of their business and the amazing community they have built there. These two are such a fun couple and they truly have built an incredible brand! Check out more on the blog. SHOW NOTESBurwell, NebraskaArcadia, NebraskaTheory Coffee TechNormal Wholesale Collective FOLLOW NORMAL ROASTING COMPANYFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMWEBSITE BRANDED BY RURAL REVIVALDid you start out the year with big brand goals but still haven't found the time to work on those? If that's you, we've still got four months left in the year and we can help make this happen for you through Branded by Rural Revival — our rural design studio that specifically focuses on helping small businesses and small towns. From websites to logos, marketing assets, course building, and podcast setup, we are ready to help you build a brand you love. Find out more and check out our latest work at brandedbyruralrevival.co. MORE FROM RURAL REVIVALWEBSITEINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK

On today’s episode of the podcast we're with Jessi Mason of The Market & Mill in Anselmo, Nebraska (pop. 109). Jessi's sharing how she went from being a social worker with no business background to a grocery store owner, and her journey in learning new things like ordering groceries, profit margins, diversifying, and even how her social work background still plays a role. Plus, Jessi is getting creative and innovative to keep things as fresh and local as possible in the store, including turning part of the space into a coffee shop and community kitchen. You’ll love how Jessi has jumped into this adventure of being a grocery store owner, and how this business has become such a hub for the community. While we were doing this interview, the place was buzzing the entire time with a steady stream of customers. Which, when you think about it, is truly incredible for a town of this size! Check out more on the blog and see the transformation Jessi and Andrew have brought to this space! SHOW NOTESAnselmo, NebraskaBroken Bow, NebraskaCallaway, NebraskaNebraska Arts CouncilSandhills National Scenic Byway FOLLOW THE MARKET & MILLFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMWEBSITE BRANDED BY RURAL REVIVALWe’ve now expanded our design services at Branded by Rural Revival to offer logos, branding, and marketing assets! So, if you need a logo or brand refresh, or a new website, we’d love to help you build a brand you love. Find out more and check out our latest work at brandedbyruralrevival.co. MORE FROM RURAL REVIVALWEBSITEINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK

On today’s episode of the Rural Revival podcast we’re with Deb McGinn, Ginny Showman, Jacque Andrew, Sara Ostrander, and Peg Raney of Why Not Us — a group of 72 women who pooled their resources to save a historic downtown building called The Centennial on their town square in Jefferson, Iowa (pop. 4,182). After the building was flooded with several thousands of gallons of water and it destroyed the community’s popular tea room, they wanted somebody to bring it back, and finally decided, why not us? They’re sharing how they pooled their resources, set parameters for the group, found somebody to run the restaurant, and the incredible impact this has had on their community. You’ll love the model that these ladies have established in working together to bring back this historic building and important business to the community of Jefferson. There is no doubt this is going to spark some ideas for you in how you can pool your resources to do something similar in your community! We’re excited to watch this project continue and to see that second story get finished out. Thank you to all the ladies for being on the podcast, and to all 72 ladies who make up Why Not Us, thank you for your investment into your community and for inspiring us to do something similar in our small towns. Because hey, why not us? Check out more on the blog. SHOW NOTES:Jefferson, IowaPete Franks - Franks Design GroupKevin Conway - Westbrook ConstructionChirpJefferson Matters FOLLOW WHY NOT US:FACEBOOK FOLLOW THE CENTENNIAL:FACEBOOK BRANDED BY RURAL REVIVALI have a fun announcement - we’ve now expanded our design services at Branded by Rural Revival to offer logos, branding, and marketing assets! So, if you need a logo or brand refresh, or a new website, we’d love to help you build a brand you love. You can find out more at brandedbyruralrevival.co. MORE FROM RURAL REVIVALWEBSITEINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK

On today’s podcast episode we’re with Luke and Jennifer Mahin of Irrigation Ales in Courtland, Kansas (pop. 294). They’re sharing how they have built this business over time, starting with the Courtland Fermentation Club and the process of learning how to brew good, quality beer, as well as the cool story behind their branding. They also talk about the incredible entrepreneurial culture of Courtland, plus what it was like for Luke growing up in a very small town and for Jennifer moving to a very small town. You are going to love SO MUCH about this interview and there’s so much we can learn from Luke and Jennifer’s story. Whether it’s building your business one step at a time or creating that entrepreneurial culture in your town or the economic development tips — we know you are walking away from this interview inspired! Check out more on the blog. SHOW NOTES:Courtland, KansasRepublic County Economic DevelopmentCourtland Fermentation ClubCourtland Fun DaySoul SistersCourtland Town Feature FOLLOW IRRIGATION ALES:WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK BRANDED BY RURAL REVIVALI have a fun announcement - we’ve now expanded our design services at Branded by Rural Revival to offer logos, branding, and marketing assets! So, if you need a logo or brand refresh, or a new website, we’d love to help you build a brand you love. You can find out more at brandedbyruralrevival.co. MORE FROM RURAL REVIVALWEBSITEINSTAGRAMFACEBOOK