Small Town Big Business

Heaven Lunsford: Southern Beauty Aesthetics - Small Town Big Business Podcast

In this inspiring episode, co-host Deb Barnett sits down with Heaven Lunsford, founder and esthetician at Southern Beauty Aesthetics in Marion, Illinois. Originally from Quincy and raised in Dix, Illinois, Heaven shares her journey from relocating to Marion to launching her business in 2022 with a vision and no local network. Through grit, community involvement, and a deep passion for helping others, Heaven has built a thriving aesthetic studio and is already planning her next phase: expansion. She discusses the challenges of marketing, the power of community support, and how being intentional about time and balance helps her succeed in both business and family life. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:46 Meet Heaven Lunsford: Southern Beauty Aesthetics 01:01 Starting the Business Journey 02:09 Finding the Perfect Location 04:09 Building the Business from Scratch 05:23 Community Involvement and Support 08:44 Business Structure and Future Plans 13:11 Marketing Challenges and Successes 14:21 Navigating the Advertising Maze 14:57 Leveraging Resources for Business Growth 16:12 Behind the Scenes of Business Ownership 20:24 Balancing Family and Business 24:40 Future Plans and Final Thoughts Recorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois. https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST

Flex-Line Automation: Innovation in Small Towns

Cathy Rinne and Lauren Van De Mark - Flex Line Automation In this episode of 'Small Town, Big Business,' host Deb Barnett sits down with Cathy Rinne and Lauren Van De Mark of Flex-Line Automation from Chester, Illinois. They discuss the company's 40-year journey from a family farm shop to becoming a significant player in industrial automation. Cathy and Lauren share insights into the challenges and successes of running a family business, the impact of automation on manufacturing, and the importance of community and collaboration. They also discuss their experiences as women in the industry and the transformative role of social media and AI in modern business. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgements 00:43 Meet Kathy and Lauren: The Faces Behind FlexLine Automation 01:18 The Origin Story of FlexLine Automation 03:24 Challenges and Growth in the Early Years 04:47 Becoming a Woman-Owned Business 05:43 Lauren's Journey into the Family Business 07:56 The Importance of Small Town Manufacturing 10:30 What FlexLine Automation Does 14:00 Reaching Out to Rural Manufacturers 18:26 The Role of Automation in Modern Manufacturing 24:39 Women in Manufacturing: Breaking Stereotypes 32:18 Challenges of Running a Family Business 34:09 Balancing Family and Business Dynamics 36:00 Challenges of Joining a Family Business 37:37 Embracing Technology and AI 45:19 The Importance of Networking and Resources 48:41 Collaboration and Industry Insights 51:59 The Conveyor Cougar and Social Media 55:42 The Why Behind FlexLine Automation 01:03:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Recorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois. https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Our guest: https://flex-lineautomation.com/

Sumer School: Sumer Oglesby's Vision for Education

In this episode of Small Town Big Business, co-hosts Deb Barnett and Russ Williams introduce Sumer Oglesby, founder of Sumer School in Marion, Illinois. Sumer School began in 2021 to address educational gaps exacerbated by COVID-19, evolving from a tutoring service into a comprehensive enrichment program offering art, science, and more. Summer, a third-grade teacher with 13 years of experience, discusses her transition from public school teaching to entrepreneurship, focusing on providing hands-on, technology-free learning experiences. Facing the challenges of balancing two full-time roles and the intricacies of business management, Sumer shares her dedication to fostering an inclusive and engaging environment for students. Community support and the importance of allowing children to learn at their own pace without the constraints of age-specific curriculum are highlighted.

00:00 Welcome to Small Town Big Business
01:03 Meet Our Special Guest: Sumer Oglesby
01:40 Sumer's Teaching Journey
03:26 The Birth of Sumer School
04:58 Innovative Learning Approaches
10:41 Building and Expanding Sumer School
12:23 Balancing Teaching and Business
14:11 Identifying Core Responsibilities
14:42 Delegating Tasks for Growth
17:21 Community Support and Sponsorship
18:48 Marketing Challenges and Strategies
21:07 Educational Programs and Services
23:13 The Motivation Behind the Mission
26:07 Conclusion and Contact Information

 

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

Roany Pony Boutique: Jacqueline Barringer - Small Town Big Business Podcast

Launching Big Businesses in Small Towns with Roany Pony Boutique's Jacqueline Barringer
In this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Jennifer Olson and Russ Williams introduce Jacqueline Barringer, the owner of Roany Pony Boutique. Jacqueline shares her entrepreneurial journey, starting from an online shop to opening a physical store in Marion, Illinois. She talks about the challenges she faced, her passion for Western clothing, and the support from her husband and parents. The discussion also touches on community support, the importance of social media, and Jacqueline’s future plans for her business. Tune in to hear her inspiring story and get insights into running a successful business in a small town.
00:00 Introduction and Hosts Welcome
00:47 Introducing Today's Guest: Jacqueline Berenger
01:06 Jacqueline's Business Journey
06:32 Challenges and Support in Business
13:33 Future Plans and Social Media
25:25 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
27:05 Conclusion and Thank You

Recorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.
https://members.ethosmarion.org/ 
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Our guest: https://roanyponyboutique.com/

Zac Taylor: Taylor Auction & Realty - Small Town Big Business Podcast

Auctioning Across America: Inside Taylor Auction & Realty
In this riveting episode of Small Town Big Business, co-hosts Deb Barnett and Russ Williams sit down with Zack Taylor of Taylor Auction & Realty. Zac takes us through the rich history of his family's auction business, from its beginnings with his grandfather to its expansive reach across all 50 states. Learn about Zac's journey into the auction industry, the intricacies of auctioneering, and the heartwarming stories that highlight the relational aspect of his work. Get insights into the challenges and triumphs of growing a business, including navigating regulatory requirements, training new talent, and the importance of a solid network. Plus, enjoy a live auction chant demonstration that showcases Zac's unique skills. Whether you're a small business owner or just curious about the auction world, this episode offers valuable lessons in entrepreneurship, growth, and community impact.
00:00 Welcome to Small Town Big Business
00:55 Meet Zach Taylor: Auctioneer Extraordinaire
01:49 The Art of Auctioneering
02:37 A Family Legacy: Taylor Auction Company
04:33 Expanding the Business
07:54 Managing Success and Workforce Challenges
13:23 Unique Auctions and Memorable Sales
16:30 Marketing and Networking Strategies
17:41 Marketing Budgets and Upcoming Auctions
18:27 Traveling and Future Goals
19:50 Adapting to COVID-19
20:14 The Role of Online Auctions
21:55 Family and Team Dynamics
24:51 Community Involvement and Personal Motivation
26:03 Auction Chant Demonstration
29:28 Closing Remarks and Podcast Information
Recorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.
https://members.ethosmarion.org/ 
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Our guest: https://www.taylorauction.com/

Judge Services: Josh Judge - Small Town Big Business Podcast

Small Town Big Business: Ten Years of Evolution with Judge Services
In this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams sit down with Josh Judge, founder of Judge Services, to discuss the journey of growing a small-town business in Marion, Illinois. Starting from his garage in 2014, Josh shares his transition from a solo operation to managing a team of 13 employees. He highlights the importance of customer service, technology adaptation, and building a strong team culture with core values like professionalism, integrity, and extreme ownership. Josh also talks about the challenges and rewards of running a small business, his plans for future expansion, and the value of mentorship and networking. Tune in to hear insights and advice on making a big impact in a small town.
00:00 Introduction and Hosts
00:51 Introducing Our Guest: Josh Judge
01:06 Josh Judge's Origin Story
02:04 Business Growth and Services
04:27 Technology and Customer Experience
06:21 Challenges and Motivation
11:24 Networking and Community Involvement
16:18 Future Plans and Core Values
27:10 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

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

Megabytes Technology: Dusty Satterlee - Small Town Big Business

Navigating IT Complexities and Cybersecurity with Megabytes Technology Services In this episode of Small Town Big Business, host Deb Barnett interviews Dusty Satterlee, Operations Manager at Megabytes Technology Services. They discuss the history and services of Megabytes, including IT support, networking, security cameras, and custom business software. The conversation covers the importance of cybersecurity, the role of technology in business growth, and practical advice for segmenting smart devices and preventing phishing scams. Dusty emphasizes the value of preventive IT contracts over break-fix scenarios and shares insights on how businesses can benefit from technology to improve efficiencies

Labrador Lakehouse with Victoria and Kris Johnson

Labrador Lakehouse Inn & Wedding Venue: A Journey of Dreams, Perseverance, and Healing

In this heartfelt episode of Small Town Big Business, host Deb Barnett sits down with Victoria Johnson, of the Labrador Lakehouse Inn & Wedding Venue in Murphysboro, Illinois. The sisters share their inspiring journey from Washington State to Southern Illinois, detailing the challenges and triumphs of starting a business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Victoria also opens up about the personal tragedy that led her to create The Jordan Rader Foundation in memory of her son. This episode is a touching narrative about following dreams, overcoming obstacles, and the power of healing.

Small Town Big Business Recap 2024: Russell Williams, Jennifer Olson & Deb Barnett

In this special holiday edition of the Small Town Big Business podcast, co-hosts Russell Williams, Jennifer Olson, and Deb Barnett recap the past year's noteworthy episodes and highlight the podcast's impact on the community. The hosts discuss memorable interviews with local entrepreneurs and business leaders, the importance of collaboration and support, and the spirit of entrepreneurship thriving in Southern Illinois. The episode also delves into exciting developments for 2025, including new projects at the Citadel building by Ethos Small Business Incubator, the anticipated opening of a new restaurant and brewery on the square, and significant economic growth initiatives. Reflecting on their personal and professional journeys, the hosts express gratitude to their families and listeners for their continued support. The episode concludes with a heartfelt message of thanks to their sponsors and well-wishes for the new year.
00:00 Welcome to the Small Town, Big Business Podcast
00:17 Special Holiday Edition and Sponsors
00:44 Recap of the Year and Favorite Moments
01:31 Memorable Episodes and Guests
03:58 Inspiring Stories and Community Impact
05:28 The Importance of Consistency and Teamwork
09:07 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Developments
18:25 Personal Highlights and Community Growth
26:08 Exciting Projects and Collaborations
34:10 Thank You to Our Supporters and Sponsors
39:19 Closing Remarks and New Year Wishes

Recorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.
https://members.ethosmarion.org/ 
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Gallery 111: Guy and Michele Aitchison - Small Town Big Business Podcast

In this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Jennifer Olson and Russ Williams speak with renowned artists Guy and Michelle Aitchison about their journey from Chicago to Southern Illinois, where they have established Hyperspace Studios. The couple discusses their multifaceted artistic careers, including tattooing, painting, and music, and their contributions to the local art scene. They share their vision for revitalizing Marion by opening Gallery One Eleven, an art gallery and Airbnb space. The conversation explores the changing acceptance of tattoos, the resurgence of downtown Marion, and the significance of community engagement and social currency in fostering an arts scene. The episode underscores the importance of perseverance and adaptation in pursuing creative enterprises.
00:00 Welcome to Small Town Big Business
00:58 Introducing Our Special Guests: Guy and Michelle Aitchison
01:17 The Evolution of Tattooing and Art in Southern Illinois
05:12 The Changing Landscape of Tattoo Acceptance
13:05 Community Engagement and Future Plans
20:21 Building an Arts Community
20:43 Art in the Garden: Community Outreach
22:50 Challenges in Community Engagement
23:20 The Importance of Social Currency
24:55 Inspiring the Next Generation
27:20 Collaborations and Key Influences
33:06 Revitalizing Spaces for Art
34:39 Follow Our Journey
36:32 Conclusion and Gratitude

Recorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.
https://members.ethosmarion.org/ 
SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST
Our guest: https://www.gallery111.art/