Waseca: Small Town, Big Stories

About Waseca: Small Town, Big Stories

Hey there, podcast enthusiasts and curious minds, it's your host Ann Fitch here, and I am thrilled to invite you to join me on an exciting journey through the heart and soul of Waseca, Minnesota. In this podcast, we're diving deep into the lives, experiences, and dreams of the amazing business leaders who call this charming small town home. Get ready to uncover the hidden gems and inspiring narratives that make Waseca more than just a dot on the map. Episode after episode, we'll venture into the lives of these remarkable individuals who have turned their aspirations into businesses that enrich our community and beyond. From the art center to the tech startup that's turning heads nationally, "Waseca: Small Town, Big Stories" is your backstage pass to the diverse tapestry of entrepreneurship that thrives in our beloved town. Ever wonder what drives these business leaders to Waseca? What's their journey? What inspired them to set up shop in this quaint corner of the world? Well, wonder no more! In each episode, we'll unravel the origin stories that brought them here and the challenges they faced along the way. You'll be captivated by tales of perseverance, innovation, and the unique twists of fate that led them to our picturesque streets. But we're not stopping at business talk! Expect candid conversations that take us beyond the boardroom. We'll discover the personalities behind the professional titles, from their favorite local hangouts to the hobbies that keep them grounded. And let's not forget the town itself – we'll explore the cultural events, historical landmarks, and vibrant community that these leaders have come to cherish. Waseca isn't just a backdrop; it's a character in its own right, and we're making it the star of the show. Whether you're a long-time resident, a neighboring town explorer, or simply curious about the magic of small-town America, this podcast promises to deliver insights that will leave you entertained, inspired, and with a newfound appreciation for the power of community. So, join me, Ann Fitch, as we embark on a journey to uncover the heartwarming, surprising, and downright awe-inspiring stories that make Waseca the extraordinary place it is. Subscribe to "Waseca: Small Town, Big Stories" today, and let's celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship and community together. Your next favorite podcast episode is just a play button away!

Publisher

Waseca Area Chamber of Commerce

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

8 Aug 2023

Latest episode

27 Feb 2024

Latest episodes

20 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   27 Feb 2024

   Cindy Kolander and Jim Britton on Waseca: Small Town, Big Stories - The Heart of Community Service and Nourishing Hope

   Join the conversation with Cindy Kolander and Jim Britton, the heart and soul behind the Waseca Area Neighborhood Service Center and Food Shelf, as we uncover the transformative power of community service. In this heartfelt discussion, Cindy, our new executive director, along with Jim, our cherished volunteer and board member, offer an eye-opening glimpse into the essential programs that bolster our neighbors in need. We're not just talking about food distribution; it's about nurturing hope and dignity through programs like the Backpack Program, which ensures that children don't go hungry over the weekend, and the 'In A Pinch' initiative, providing emergency support for life's unexpected turns. Prepare to be moved by powerful stories of triumph and tenderness from the front lines of community aid. Our guests share poignant recollections of how a simple act of kindness can fill more than just empty stomachs—it warms hearts and fuels resilience. Whether it's filling a retired couple's oil tank to combat the winter chill or witnessing a family's journey from hardship to stability, these narratives showcase the profound impact that our collective efforts can have. It's not just about meeting basic needs; it's about fostering a culture of compassion that echoes throughout our community. As we wrap up our session, explore the innovative strides the food shelf is taking, from a fresh produce pilot program to the power of youth engagement in charitable work. We shed light on the intricate workings behind sustaining these vital services, from the lifeblood of donations and thrift store sales to the necessity of robust community support. This is a call to action—an invitation to become part of a movement that doesn't just feed the body but also nourishes the soul. Witness the ripple effect of generosity and how you, too, can be a beacon of hope in our community.

2. 

   13 Feb 2024

   Chris and Tonya Lenz on Waseca: Small Town, Big Stories - Cultivating Success in the World of Lawn Care

   Ever wondered what it takes to transform a modest family endeavor into a sprawling lawn care empire? Chris and Tonya Lenz sit down with me and unfold the vibrant tapestry of Lenz Lawn Care. From its early days of simple home cleaning to the sophisticated landscape design and technology-driven services of today, the Lenz family shares their story of growth, underscored by a steadfast commitment to hard work, community bonds, and an unwavering 'say yes' philosophy. This episode takes you behind the scenes of a business where familial ties are as deeply rooted as the plants they nurture. Chris and Eric Lenz, siblings with dirt under their nails and entrepreneurship in their blood, discuss the joy and juggle of work-life boundaries in a family business. Their hands-on passion for nature, cultivated from a farming legacy, is evident as they describe creating a nurturing work environment, fostering employee development, and building a legacy that transcends the daily grind. As the seasons change in Waseca, so does the landscape of Lenz Lawn Care's services and technology. We delve into how even winter's quiet cloak is no pause for the Lenz team, who gear up for the rush of green seasons with innovative design software, tech-savvy lighting systems, and community partnerships. Sharing stories from the field, from the particulars of landscape design to the humorous trials of natural pest control, the Lenz's reveal the intricacies and unexpected challenges of running a successful lawn care business in the heart of Minnesota.

3. 

   2 Jan 2024

   Mike McQuery and Half Pint Brewing Company on Waseca: Small Town, Big Stories - Crafting Beer and Community

   As the frost sets in and hop vines hunker down for a Minnesota winter, Mike McQuery from Half Pint Brewing Company joins us to share the unexpected joys and jolts of hop farming in a climate that's less than forgiving. From the meticulous post-harvest rituals to outsmarting Downey Mildew, Mike's tale is woven with a rich tapestry of dedication and educational fervor. His hops may not be the star ingredient in his brews, but they're certainly a main attraction for curious visitors eager to learn about the lifecycle of these essential beer components. Transitioning from West Coast life to the heartland, one couple's leap into the unknown blossoms into a farm brewery that's as much about family as it is about fermentation. We'll toast to the beer named in honor of a cherished father and delve into the couple's blend of passion and practicality that fuels their journey in Minnesota's burgeoning beer culture. Their story is a testament to the belief that sometimes, the best way to grow roots is to plant them in entirely new soil. Wrapping up, we celebrate the community spirit that bubbles over in Minnesota's craft beer scene. There's a special kind of magic that happens when a local brewery and a pizza farm join forces, carving out a niche in the tapestry of rural enterprise. We'll explore the strategies that have allowed for steady growth without losing that all-important personal touch, proving that sometimes, the most flavorful journeys begin with a simple shift from the daily grind to the grind of malt and hops. Join us for an episode that's brimming with the essence of community, collaboration, and the craft of beer making.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.