The Growing Small Towns Show

Hosted by Rebecca Undem

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100

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Jun 2026

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About the show

The future of small towns doesn't depend on us finding more people; we need to better engage the ones who are already there. Each week, join Rebecca Undem, small-town champion and rural entrepreneur, as she chats with people who are doing their part to grow their community. You'll hear ideas and learn ways to better support your business community, create a sense of belonging for all, and foster a rich arts and culture scene in your small town. If you live in a small town, care deeply about your community, and share the belief that "if you're not growing, you're dying", this is the podcast for you.

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June 3, 2026Episode 1453 min

S6:E14 - Mental Health Awareness in Small Towns with Chris "Rhino" Swenson

We're closing out Part 1 of Season 6 with an episode about something near and dear to our hearts, and oh-so-important in rural and ag communities: mental health. For Mental Health Awareness Month, Rebecca sits down with therapist Chris Swenson — owner of Rhino Wellness Center and host of the Rhino Resilience podcast — to reframe what strength really looks like in rural communities. (Yes, we know that May is technically Mental Health Awareness Month, but we recorded this episode in May, so it counts, right?) Chris breaks down his four-pillar Rhino Resilience framework, explains mental health as biology (a regulated nervous system with an accelerator and a brake), and shares practical, do-anywhere tools for staying calm and steady. It's a warm, honest reminder about some pretty important things: you can be both strong and struggling, that you're not broken, and that connection is what pulls us out of isolation. About Chris: Chris "Rhino" Swenson is a licensed mental health therapist, speaker, and founder of Rhino Resilience. For more than 20 years, he has worked with rural individuals, families, and communities, helping people build practical resilience skills for the challenges of modern rural life. He hosts the Rhino Resilience Podcast and is passionate about strengthening rural communities from the inside out. In this episode, we cover: Why rural suicide rates run two and a half to three and a half times higher than urban areas (why awareness alone isn't enough without practical next steps) Chris's four pillars of Rhino Resilience and how they redefine strength to include recovery and reaching out (not going it alone) How understanding your nervous system as biology (an accelerator and a brake) can dissolve the stigma around mental health Simple, accessible tools you can practice anywhere — breathwork, micro-resets, and grounding — and why you have to build them before you need them How a single moment can can a life Links + Resources Mentioned: Website: https://rhinoresilience.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCso1ch-Kaa_2IXZPJSZFZoQ FB page: https://www.facebook.com/RhinoResilienceOfficial Podcast: https://rhinoresilience.com/podcast/ Want to get your business in front of our audience? We are looking for podcast sponsors! Each season, we feature a select group of Small Business Partners—brands that share our mission to celebrate small-town life and big ideas. With a 4–6% average Facebook engagement rate (well above the industry average), 2,600+ loyal followers, and 45,000 monthly content views, we have an amazing, highly engaged audience of people who can't wait to learn more about you. When we feature you, your story, and your product/service, it's like a friend's recommendation, because it is. Want to know more? Reach out to us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org We have a membership! Join the GST Club — a virtual support community built for those leading change in small-town America. For $30/month, you'll get twice-monthly live calls with Rebecca, access to a private network of fellow small-town changemakers, replay recordings, frameworks, and early access to GST events. It's for anyone from volunteers and entrepreneurs to city officials who believe small towns deserve big ideas and better leadership. Part think-tank. Part pep-talk. Part creative jam session. All support. We Want to Hear From You! We really, really do, and if you'll let us, we'd love to feature your actual message just like we did with Terri's (with your permission, of course!) Some of the best parts about radio shows and podcasts are listener call-ins, so we've decided to make those a part of the Growing Small Towns Podcast. We really, really want to hear from you! We're have two "participation dance" elements of the show: "Small town humblebrags": Call in and tell us about something amazing you did in your small town so we can celebrate with you. No win is too small—we want to hear it all, and we will be excessively enthusiastic about whatever it is! You can call in for your friends, too, because giving shout-outs is one of our favorite things. "Solving Your Small-Town People Challenges": Have a tough issue in your community? We want to help. Call in and tell us about your problem, and we'll solve it on an episode of the podcast. Want to remain anonymous? Totally cool, we can be all secretive and stuff. We're suave like that. If you've got a humblebrag or a tricky people problem, call 701-203-3337 and leave a message with the deets. We really can't wait to hear from you! Get In Touch Have an idea for a future episode/guest, have feedback or a question, or just want to chat? Email us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org Subscribe + Review Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of The Growing Small Towns Show! If the information in our conversations and interviews has helped you in your small town, head out to Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Spotify, subscribe to the show, and leave us an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help us continue to deliver relevant, helpful content, but it will also help us reach even more small-town trailblazers just like you!

May 4, 2026Episode 1358 min

S6:E13 - How to Harness Creativity to Create Value in Small Towns with Jordan DeGree

Some people are just wired to make things better–in their businesses, their communities, their small towns–even when it's hard, and nobody around them quite gets it. This episode is for those people. We get it. Today's guest, Jordan DeGree, gets it. And he has created the Rural Ideas Network to connect you with other people who get it, too. Today's episode is what support and connection can look like, and where you can find them. About Jordan: Jordan DeGree is an entrepreneur, social innovator, artist, and comedian. No, just kidding about the comedian part. He's experimented with several different ventures and enjoys solving problems, creating value, and helping people. Jordan and his team launched the Rural Ideas Network, a nonprofit organization, in 2021. They continue to evolve how it supports and connects rural innovators in small communities across the country. Some random stats - Jordan has 3 kids, an $11M real estate portfolio, was awarded a Governor's Volunteer Award, has a 4.96 star host rating on Airbnb, changed his major 4 times in college, has helped hundreds of rural ventures since 2021, teaches a stained glass class most Tuesdays, and has successfully avoided joining LinkedIn. He's at his best helping people think outside the box and finding new opportunities to create value. You can learn more about Jordan at JordanDeGree.com. In this episode, we cover: The origin story of the Rural Ideas Network — and what five years of experimenting built into RIN 2.0 Why "Rural Innovator" is a bigger tent than you might think The new Rural Innovator Awards, the wildcard category, and the October 8th Summit date you'll want to save Rebecca's honest reflection on almost quitting — and what pulled her back Why "where you're standing determines what you see" might be the most useful thing you hear this week Links + Resources Mentioned: Rural Ideas Network: https://ruralideas.net/ Growing Small Towns Club: https://www.growingsmalltowns.org/club Want to get your business in front of our audience? We are looking for podcast sponsors! Each season, we feature a select group of Small Business Partners—brands that share our mission to celebrate small-town life and big ideas. With a 4–6% average Facebook engagement rate (well above the industry average), 2,600+ loyal followers, and 45,000 monthly content views, we have an amazing, highly engaged audience of people who can't wait to learn more about you. When we feature you, your story, and your product/service, it's like a friend's recommendation, because it is. Want to know more? Reach out to us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org We have a membership! Join the GST Club — a virtual support community built for those leading change in small-town America. For $30/month, you'll get twice-monthly live calls with Rebecca, access to a private network of fellow small-town changemakers, replay recordings, frameworks, and early access to GST events. It's for anyone from volunteers and entrepreneurs to city officials who believe small towns deserve big ideas and better leadership. Part think-tank. Part pep-talk. Part creative jam session. All support. We Want to Hear From You! We really, really do, and if you'll let us, we'd love to feature your actual message just like we did with Terri's (with your permission, of course!) Some of the best parts about radio shows and podcasts are listener call-ins, so we've decided to make those a part of the Growing Small Towns Podcast. We really, really want to hear from you! We're have two "participation dance" elements of the show: "Small town humblebrags": Call in and tell us about something amazing you did in your small town so we can celebrate with you. No win is too small—we want to hear it all, and we will be excessively enthusiastic about whatever it is! You can call in for your friends, too, because giving shout-outs is one of our favorite things. "Solving Your Small-Town People Challenges": Have a tough issue in your community? We want to help. Call in and tell us about your problem, and we'll solve it on an episode of the podcast. Want to remain anonymous? Totally cool, we can be all secretive and stuff. We're suave like that. If you've got a humblebrag or a tricky people problem, call 701-203-3337 and leave a message with the deets. We really can't wait to hear from you! Get In Touch Have an idea for a future episode/guest, have feedback or a question, or just want to chat? Email us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org Subscribe + Review Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of The Growing Small Towns Show! If the information in our conversations and interviews has helped you in your small town, head out to Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Spotify, subscribe to the show, and leave us an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help us continue to deliver relevant, helpful content, but it will also help us reach even more small-town trailblazers just like you!

April 27, 2026Episode 1237 min

S6:E12- Recruiting and Retaining Teachers in Small Towns with Amy Jacobson

Amy Jacobson is the Director of UND's Special Education Resident Teacher Program, and on today's episode, she breaks down two innovative pathways that have trained roughly 600 special education teachers for North Dakota schools since 1997, including one designed for people who don't even have an undergraduate degree yet. The programs combine paid, year-long internships with layered mentorship and heavily subsidized graduate education, creating a model with remarkable retention rates in rural communities. Whether you're in North Dakota or not, this episode is full of transferable ideas for any small town looking to think outside the box about recruiting and retaining the professionals they need most. About Amy: Amy Jacobson, Ed.D. is the Director of both the Special Education Resident Teacher Program and the Accelerated Bachelor of General Studies and Master of Education in Special Education at the University of North Dakota. With over two decades of experience in special education, she leads statewide efforts to recruit, train, and retain special education teachers, particularly in rural and high-need areas. Dr. Jacobson earned her Doctor of Education in Teacher Education from the University of North Dakota, along with a master's degree in special education. She earned her bachelor's degree in elementary education from Mayville State University. In her role, she collaborates with school districts, state agencies, and university partners to oversee program development, funding, and teacher placement. She also coordinates an accelerated pathway program designed to support paraeducators and others in becoming licensed special educators. Prior to her current position, Dr. Jacobson served as a special education teacher and department leader at the secondary level, where she worked extensively with students with diverse learning needs. She is also an experienced faculty member and advisor, having taught numerous graduate courses and mentored master's students. Her work focuses on strengthening the special education workforce through innovative preparation models, mentorship, and partnerships across North Dakota. In this episode, we cover: How UND's Special Education Resident Teacher Program combines grad school with a paid, year-long classroom internship and how that helps retention The creative dual-enrollment pathway Amy built for people who want in but don't have a completed bachelor's degree that helps them earn two degrees in roughly four years Why 75–85% of resident teacher candidates today have zero education background — and why that's a feature, not a bug Practical ideas any community can steal: apprenticeship programs, dual credit for high schoolers, and employer-matched tuition through local economic development Why strong special education in rural schools isn't just good for schools but the whole community Links + Resources Mentioned: Special Education Resident Teacher Program: https://education.und.edu/academics/tlpp/rtp-special-ed.html General Studies Degree with Master's in Special Education: https://und.edu/programs/general-studies-ba-special-education-med/index.html Want to get your business in front of our audience? We are looking for podcast sponsors! Each season, we feature a select group of Small Business Partners—brands that share our mission to celebrate small-town life and big ideas. With a 4–6% average Facebook engagement rate (well above the industry average), 2,600+ loyal followers, and 45,000 monthly content views, we have an amazing, highly engaged audience of people who can't wait to learn more about you. When we feature you, your story, and your product/service, it's like a friend's recommendation, because it is. Want to know more? Reach out to us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org We have a membership! Join the GST Club — a virtual support community built for those leading change in small-town America. For $30/month, you'll get twice-monthly live calls with Rebecca, access to a private network of fellow small-town changemakers, replay recordings, frameworks, and early access to GST events. It's for anyone from volunteers and entrepreneurs to city officials who believe small towns deserve big ideas and better leadership. Part think-tank. Part pep-talk. Part creative jam session. All support. We Want to Hear From You! We really, really do, and if you'll let us, we'd love to feature your actual message just like we did with Terri's (with your permission, of course!) Some of the best parts about radio shows and podcasts are listener call-ins, so we've decided to make those a part of the Growing Small Towns Podcast. We really, really want to hear from you! We're have two "participation dance" elements of the show: "Small town humblebrags": Call in and tell us about something amazing you did in your small town so we can celebrate with you. No win is too small—we want to hear it all, and we will be excessively enthusiastic about whatever it is! You can call in for your friends, too, because giving shout-outs is one of our favorite things. "Solving Your Small-Town People Challenges": Have a tough issue in your community? We want to help. Call in and tell us about your problem, and we'll solve it on an episode of the podcast. Want to remain anonymous? Totally cool, we can be all secretive and stuff. We're suave like that. If you've got a humblebrag or a tricky people problem, call 701-203-3337 and leave a message with the deets. We really can't wait to hear from you! Get In Touch Have an idea for a future episode/guest, have feedback or a question, or just want to chat? Email us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org Subscribe + Review Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of The Growing Small Towns Show! If the information in our conversations and interviews has helped you in your small town, head out to Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Spotify, subscribe to the show, and leave us an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help us continue to deliver relevant, helpful content, but it will also help us reach even more small-town trailblazers just like you!

April 20, 2026Episode 111 hr 4 min

S6:E11 - How Thinking Like a Futurist Can Benefit Small Towns with Rebecca Ryan

Rebecca sits down with futurist Rebecca Ryan for a conversation about why and how small towns need to stop planning for the past and start envisioning multiple possible futures. They discuss the PHOEBE energy assessment, the three futures framework, and why traditional stakeholder-based visioning often fails. It's one of those episodes that both challenges how you think while also encouraging you to work in your strengths, build trust over polish, and remember that the future isn't something that just happens to us—we happen to it too. About Rebecca: Rebecca Ryan is a noted top 50 professional futurist, economist, best-selling author and entrepreneur. She is the founder of NEXT Generation Consulting through which she partners with government leaders across the country. Looking a generation ahead, she outlines strategies in urban planning, economic development and workforce development to ensure communities are well equipped for future trends and challenges. Rebecca is a graduate of Drake University with a certificate in Strategic Foresight from University of Houston; she is the Resident Futurist at the Alliance for Innovation and on the Executive Committee of the global Association of Professional Futurists. In this episode, we cover: How Rebecca Ryan became a professional futurist and why that career path even exists The PHOEBE assessment and its four energy patterns: Visionary, Collaborator, Organizer, and Driver Why most strategic plans are just last year's document with updated dates The three futures framework: expectable, challenging, and visionary Why trust is the invisible force multiplier that makes or breaks community work Links + Resources Mentioned: Keynotes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQcg7ED38gI Substack: https://rebeccaryanfuturist.substack.com/ Training: https://rebeccaryan.com/what-we-do/training/think-like-a-futurist YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@rebeccaryan620 Want to get your business in front of our audience? We are looking for podcast sponsors! Each season, we feature a select group of Small Business Partners—brands that share our mission to celebrate small-town life and big ideas. With a 4–6% average Facebook engagement rate (well above the industry average), 2,600+ loyal followers, and 45,000 monthly content views, we have an amazing, highly engaged audience of people who can't wait to learn more about you. When we feature you, your story, and your product/service, it's like a friend's recommendation, because it is. Want to know more? Reach out to us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org We have a membership! Join the GST Club — a virtual support community built for those leading change in small-town America. For $30/month, you'll get twice-monthly live calls with Rebecca, access to a private network of fellow small-town changemakers, replay recordings, frameworks, and early access to GST events. It's for anyone from volunteers and entrepreneurs to city officials who believe small towns deserve big ideas and better leadership. Part think-tank. Part pep-talk. Part creative jam session. All support. We Want to Hear From You! We really, really do, and if you'll let us, we'd love to feature your actual message just like we did with Terri's (with your permission, of course!) Some of the best parts about radio shows and podcasts are listener call-ins, so we've decided to make those a part of the Growing Small Towns Podcast. We really, really want to hear from you! We're have two "participation dance" elements of the show: "Small town humblebrags": Call in and tell us about something amazing you did in your small town so we can celebrate with you. No win is too small—we want to hear it all, and we will be excessively enthusiastic about whatever it is! You can call in for your friends, too, because giving shout-outs is one of our favorite things. "Solving Your Small-Town People Challenges": Have a tough issue in your community? We want to help. Call in and tell us about your problem, and we'll solve it on an episode of the podcast. Want to remain anonymous? Totally cool, we can be all secretive and stuff. We're suave like that. If you've got a humblebrag or a tricky people problem, call 701-203-3337 and leave a message with the deets. We really can't wait to hear from you! Get In Touch Have an idea for a future episode/guest, have feedback or a question, or just want to chat? Email us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org Subscribe + Review Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of The Growing Small Towns Show! If the information in our conversations and interviews has helped you in your small town, head out to Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Spotify, subscribe to the show, and leave us an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help us continue to deliver relevant, helpful content, but it will also help us reach even more small-town trailblazers just like you!

April 13, 2026Episode 1042 min

S6:E10 - Connecting Students and Employers with the Career Carousel

This episode is about Oakes, ND's first-ever Career Carousel, a speed-dating-style event that connected 52 high school juniors and seniors with 14 local employers for four-minute rotational conversations. The goal was to give students a safe, constructive space to practice professional interactions, learn about local opportunities like tuition reimbursement or who's hiring in Oakes, and help employers connect with future talent. The pilot was a hit, which we're tickled about, and we're so excited because reaching even one student makes these efforts worthwhile. In this episode, we cover: How the room was set up for max interactions, minimal distractions An honest review from Rebecca's oldest son, Andrew, who participated in the event (word on the street is that some kids complained before the event, but ended up enjoying it more than expected). Why hosting the event off-campus at a Main Street location made it feel more legitimate and less like "just another school thing." The layered goals behind the event: practicing professional conversations, discovering local opportunities, and building the community's workforce pipeline Lessons learned and next steps, including the idea of attaching a grade to participation and offering all planning materials free to other communities Links + Resources Mentioned: You can access resources here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1bPKmUe8fDA1tuiCxBMHUldXA9SznJcxH?usp=sharing Want to get your business in front of our audience? We are looking for podcast sponsors! Each season, we feature a select group of Small Business Partners—brands that share our mission to celebrate small-town life and big ideas. With a 4–6% average Facebook engagement rate (well above the industry average), 2,600+ loyal followers, and 45,000 monthly content views, we have an amazing, highly engaged audience of people who can't wait to learn more about you. When we feature you, your story, and your product/service, it's like a friend's recommendation, because it is. Want to know more? Reach out to us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org We have a membership! Join the GST Club — a virtual support community built for those leading change in small-town America. For $30/month, you'll get twice-monthly live calls with Rebecca, access to a private network of fellow small-town changemakers, replay recordings, frameworks, and early access to GST events. It's for anyone from volunteers and entrepreneurs to city officials who believe small towns deserve big ideas and better leadership. Part think-tank. Part pep-talk. Part creative jam session. All support. We Want to Hear From You! We really, really do, and if you'll let us, we'd love to feature your actual message just like we did with Terri's (with your permission, of course!) Some of the best parts about radio shows and podcasts are listener call-ins, so we've decided to make those a part of the Growing Small Towns Podcast. We really, really want to hear from you! We're have two "participation dance" elements of the show: "Small town humblebrags": Call in and tell us about something amazing you did in your small town so we can celebrate with you. No win is too small—we want to hear it all, and we will be excessively enthusiastic about whatever it is! You can call in for your friends, too, because giving shout-outs is one of our favorite things. "Solving Your Small-Town People Challenges": Have a tough issue in your community? We want to help. Call in and tell us about your problem, and we'll solve it on an episode of the podcast. Want to remain anonymous? Totally cool, we can be all secretive and stuff. We're suave like that. If you've got a humblebrag or a tricky people problem, call 701-203-3337 and leave a message with the deets. We really can't wait to hear from you! Get In Touch Have an idea for a future episode/guest, have feedback or a question, or just want to chat? Email us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org Subscribe + Review Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of The Growing Small Towns Show! If the information in our conversations and interviews has helped you in your small town, head out to Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Spotify, subscribe to the show, and leave us an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help us continue to deliver relevant, helpful content, but it will also help us reach even more small-town trailblazers just like you!

March 31, 2026Episode 91 hr 40 min

S6:E9 - Growing Entrepreneurs in Small Towns with Andrew Button

What actually moves a small town forward? It's not a lack of ideas, it's a lack of execution. This episode digs into the mindset shift from planning to ownership, showing how consistent action, local investment, and focusing on the people who show up can create real momentum over time. It's a practical, experience-based take on how we make things happen on the ground. About Andrew: After a 15-year career working in rural North America with the various businesses and economic development organizations, Andrew founded Mashup Lab (www.mashuplab.ca); a for-more-than-profit company focused on one thing: unleashing the entrepreneurial potential of rural places. Mashup Lab's activities fall under two business units; virtual business incubation programming, and a network of rural co-working spaces that operate under the brand WorkEvolved (www.WorkEvolved.ca). To date Mashup Lab has successfully scaled its Virtual Business Incubator to rural regions throughout Canada & the US, working with more than 1,200 entrepreneurs to start and grow 700+ businesses in 600+ rural communities. Andrew is also co-founder of Awesome South Shore (www.awesomesouthshore.ca), a community-backed micro-fund that has given away over $90,000 in no-strings-attached cash to people that want to do something awesome in their community. Andrew holds an MBA from Saint Mary's University and a BBA from Acadia University. Most recently he was selected into the Wallace McCain Institute's Entrepreneurial Leaders Program as one the Top 30 high-growth potential entrepreneurs in Atlantic Canada. Andrew is from a small rural community in Newfoundland, married a girl from a small rural community in Nova Scotia (Eva) that they now call home with their two boys (James & Josh). In this episode, we cover: Why most communities don't have an idea problem—they have an execution problem The difference between chasing big wins and building sustainable, incremental growth How to think about participation without getting stuck on who isn't involved What generational transition really means—and how to adapt instead of resist it Why ownership, not titles or committees, is the real driver of progress Links + Resources Mentioned: 1) Folks can connect with Andrew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abutton/ 2) If listeners would like to chat about what they're working on in their small town and how Andrew and/or Mashup Lab might be helpful (or anything else we touch on during our conversation, for that matter!), Andrew is kindly offering a free, no obligation Discovery Call! Book here: https://tidycal.com/mashuplab/discovery-call 3) If listeners would like more details on our Dream Business Program (aka Mashup Lab Virtual Business Incubator), please fill out this form: https://wkf.ms/4bMNmhV Want to get your business in front of our audience? We are looking for podcast sponsors! Each season, we feature a select group of Small Business Partners—brands that share our mission to celebrate small-town life and big ideas. With a 4–6% average Facebook engagement rate (well above the industry average), 2,600+ loyal followers, and 45,000 monthly content views, we have an amazing, highly engaged audience of people who can't wait to learn more about you. When we feature you, your story, and your product/service, it's like a friend's recommendation, because it is. Want to know more? Reach out to us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org We have a membership! Join the GST Club — a virtual support community built for those leading change in small-town America. For $30/month, you'll get twice-monthly live calls with Rebecca, access to a private network of fellow small-town changemakers, replay recordings, frameworks, and early access to GST events. It's for anyone from volunteers and entrepreneurs to city officials who believe small towns deserve big ideas and better leadership. Part think-tank. Part pep-talk. Part creative jam session. All support. We Want to Hear From You! We really, really do, and if you'll let us, we'd love to feature your actual message just like we did with Terri's (with your permission, of course!) Some of the best parts about radio shows and podcasts are listener call-ins, so we've decided to make those a part of the Growing Small Towns Podcast. We really, really want to hear from you! We're have two "participation dance" elements of the show: "Small town humblebrags": Call in and tell us about something amazing you did in your small town so we can celebrate with you. No win is too small—we want to hear it all, and we will be excessively enthusiastic about whatever it is! You can call in for your friends, too, because giving shout-outs is one of our favorite things. "Solving Your Small-Town People Challenges": Have a tough issue in your community? We want to help. Call in and tell us about your problem, and we'll solve it on an episode of the podcast. Want to remain anonymous? Totally cool, we can be all secretive and stuff. We're suave like that. If you've got a humblebrag or a tricky people problem, call 701-203-3337 and leave a message with the deets. We really can't wait to hear from you! Get In Touch Have an idea for a future episode/guest, have feedback or a question, or just want to chat? Email us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org Subscribe + Review Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of The Growing Small Towns Show! If the information in our conversations and interviews has helped you in your small town, head out to Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Spotify, subscribe to the show, and leave us an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help us continue to deliver relevant, helpful content, but it will also help us reach even more small-town trailblazers just like you!

March 23, 2026Episode 81 hr 54 min

S6:E8 - Wisdom From 30 Years of Economic Development with Bob Wurl

What actually drives economic development in small towns? In this episode, Bob Wurl shares how community banking, long-term thinking, and a willingness to act—not just plan—have shaped his own small town's success. It's a practical look at what happens when people stop waiting for change and start building it themselves About Bob: Bob Wurl grew up in Hankinson, ND. He holds a B.S.B.A. degree with a major in Accounting from University of North Dakota and completed the Graduate School of Banking Program at the University of Wisconsin in 1995. He has 45 years of banking experience, serving 30 years as President & CEO of Lincoln State Bank, Hankinson; currently CEO and Board Chair. Wurl serves as: Treasurer of the Hankinson CDC Secretary of the Lake Agassiz Regional Development Corporation Board & Chair of Loan Committee Board member and Secretary of Southeast Senior Services and Richland County Council on Aging Vice Chairman of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Hankinson and Chairman of the Endowment Fund Committee. Advocate for Project 24 / Christ's Care for Children – Kenya In this episode, we cover: Why community banks play a bigger role in economic development than most people realize How Hankinson shifted from chasing big industry to building sustainable local growth What it really takes to keep Main Street alive (hint: sometimes you have to buy the building yourself) How to think about generational transitions without defaulting to "kids these days." A simple but powerful mindset shift: focus on who shows up, not who doesn't Links + Resources Mentioned: Hankinson ND: www.hankinsonnd.com , Lincoln State Bank: www.lsbhank.com, Christ's Care for Children: www.lcms.org/ccck Want to get your business in front of our audience? We are looking for podcast sponsors! Each season, we feature a select group of Small Business Partners—brands that share our mission to celebrate small-town life and big ideas. With a 4–6% average Facebook engagement rate (well above the industry average), 2,600+ loyal followers, and 45,000 monthly content views, we have an amazing, highly engaged audience of people who can't wait to learn more about you. When we feature you, your story, and your product/service, it's like a friend's recommendation, because it is. Want to know more? Reach out to us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org We have a membership! Join the GST Club — a virtual support community built for those leading change in small-town America. For $30/month, you'll get twice-monthly live calls with Rebecca, access to a private network of fellow small-town changemakers, replay recordings, frameworks, and early access to GST events. It's for anyone from volunteers and entrepreneurs to city officials who believe small towns deserve big ideas and better leadership. Part think-tank. Part pep-talk. Part creative jam session. All support. We Want to Hear From You! We really, really do, and if you'll let us, we'd love to feature your actual message just like we did with Terri's (with your permission, of course!) Some of the best parts about radio shows and podcasts are listener call-ins, so we've decided to make those a part of the Growing Small Towns Podcast. We really, really want to hear from you! We're have two "participation dance" elements of the show: "Small town humblebrags": Call in and tell us about something amazing you did in your small town so we can celebrate with you. No win is too small—we want to hear it all, and we will be excessively enthusiastic about whatever it is! You can call in for your friends, too, because giving shout-outs is one of our favorite things. "Solving Your Small-Town People Challenges": Have a tough issue in your community? We want to help. Call in and tell us about your problem, and we'll solve it on an episode of the podcast. Want to remain anonymous? Totally cool, we can be all secretive and stuff. We're suave like that. If you've got a humblebrag or a tricky people problem, call 701-203-3337 and leave a message with the deets. We really can't wait to hear from you! Get In Touch Have an idea for a future episode/guest, have feedback or a question, or just want to chat? Email us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org Subscribe + Review Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of The Growing Small Towns Show! If the information in our conversations and interviews has helped you in your small town, head out to Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Spotify, subscribe to the show, and leave us an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help us continue to deliver relevant, helpful content, but it will also help us reach even more small-town trailblazers just like you!

March 17, 2026Episode 755 min

S6:E7- Vacant Properties in Small Towns with Liz Kozub

Vacant and deteriorating properties are a challenge facing communities across the country—but small towns are not powerless to address them. In this episode, Liz from the Center for Community Progress shares practical strategies communities can use to inventory vacant buildings, navigate ownership challenges, and turn neglected properties into opportunities for revitalization. The conversation explores how data, partnerships, and creative thinking can help small towns reclaim the spaces that shape their future. About Liz: Liz Kozub is an Associate Director for Technical Assistance at the Center for Community Progress. As an experienced project manager and program developer, she has spent the past decade focused on helping communities develop policy solutions, partnerships, and innovative approaches to addressing systemic vacancy. Kozub draws on extensive experience building interlocal cooperation among underserved communities to support the places the Technical Assistance team serves, with a focus on land banks and code enforcement. Passionate about emboldening local leaders to make a difference in their communities, Kozub has fostered connections between grassroots leaders in community revitalization from Montgomery, Alabama to Reading, Pennsylvania; and helped local official strengthen their arguments for land banks in New Jersey and Indiana. Prior to joining the Community Progress team, Kozub was an instrumental member of the leadership team to form the Tri-COG Land Bank, a multi-municipal, community-driven land bank in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. The Tri-COG Land Bank has since grown to become a national model for land banking in the United States. She also led the establishment of a multi-municipal code enforcement program to support small under-resourced communities. Kozub received a Master of Public Administration from the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public and International affairs, and Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Allegheny College. She is based just outside of Buffalo, New York. In this episode, we cover: Why understanding who owns vacant properties is the first step toward solving the problem How communities can use code enforcement, land banks, and tax tools to address vacancy Why time is the biggest enemy of a vacant building Creative ways communities are using arts and community engagement to activate empty spaces How small towns can build partnerships to turn vacant properties into new opportunities Links + Resources Mentioned: Example project: Breathing Lights Example project: Dear Tamaqua and Tamaqua Area Community Partnership press: Tamaqua praised for arts, culture projects Resource: Creative placemaking in vacant properties example projects Resource: State of Land Banking Survey Snapshot Resource: Financial Impacts of Vacancy Report: Reevaluating Code Enforcement Event: Community Progress' Reclaiming Vacant Properties Conference Event/Educational Resources: Community Progress' monthly webinar series Services: Technical Assistance Brochure, or reach out to Liz at ekozub@communityprogress.org Want to get your business in front of our audience? We are looking for podcast sponsors! Each season, we feature a select group of Small Business Partners—brands that share our mission to celebrate small-town life and big ideas. With a 4–6% average Facebook engagement rate (well above the industry average), 2,600+ loyal followers, and 45,000 monthly content views, we have an amazing, highly engaged audience of people who can't wait to learn more about you. When we feature you, your story, and your product/service, it's like a friend's recommendation, because it is. Want to know more? Reach out to us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org We have a membership! Join the GST Club — a virtual support community built for those leading change in small-town America. For $30/month, you'll get twice-monthly live calls with Rebecca, access to a private network of fellow small-town changemakers, replay recordings, frameworks, and early access to GST events. It's for anyone from volunteers and entrepreneurs to city officials who believe small towns deserve big ideas and better leadership. Part think-tank. Part pep-talk. Part creative jam session. All support. We Want to Hear From You! We really, really do, and if you'll let us, we'd love to feature your actual message just like we did with Terri's (with your permission, of course!) Some of the best parts about radio shows and podcasts are listener call-ins, so we've decided to make those a part of the Growing Small Towns Podcast. We really, really want to hear from you! We're have two "participation dance" elements of the show: "Small town humblebrags": Call in and tell us about something amazing you did in your small town so we can celebrate with you. No win is too small—we want to hear it all, and we will be excessively enthusiastic about whatever it is! You can call in for your friends, too, because giving shout-outs is one of our favorite things. "Solving Your Small-Town People Challenges": Have a tough issue in your community? We want to help. Call in and tell us about your problem, and we'll solve it on an episode of the podcast. Want to remain anonymous? Totally cool, we can be all secretive and stuff. We're suave like that. If you've got a humblebrag or a tricky people problem, call 701-203-3337 and leave a message with the deets. We really can't wait to hear from you! Get In Touch Have an idea for a future episode/guest, have feedback or a question, or just want to chat? Email us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org Subscribe + Review Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of The Growing Small Towns Show! If the information in our conversations and interviews has helped you in your small town, head out to Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Spotify, subscribe to the show, and leave us an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help us continue to deliver relevant, helpful content, but it will also help us reach even more small-town trailblazers just like you!

March 10, 2026Episode 61 hr 2 min

S6:E6 - Foodies, Families and Unexpected Paths with Shawn and Aiden Ulmer

This episode features a local Oakes father/son duo and we're so excited to introduce them to you! Shawn and Aiden Ulmer of the Angry Beaver Lodge share the story of a third-generation restaurant business and the unexpected path that brought Aiden back to Oaks. They discuss generational transitions, evolving bar culture, and the role local businesses play in creating community. This is a conversation about what draws people back to small towns and the active role communities can play in facilitating it. About Shawn and Aiden: Shawn grew up in Valley City, ND. He fell in love with the restaurant industry while helping at the steakhouse his parents owned for most of his childhood. His entire life has been spent in the service industry. His love of food, drinks, and people makes him a natural. This fall marks his 25th year as the owner of the Angry Beaver Lodge in Oakes. On the off chance that Shawn is not at work prepping, creating new menu items, chatting up the customers, or catering a wedding reception, you will find him cheering on his beloved MN Vikings, sitting in a deer stand with his bow at the ready, or spoiling his granddaughters. Shawn's youngest son, Aiden (aka Chili), accepted the position of Front of the House Manager at the Angry Beaver Lodge this past September. Aiden was born and raised in Oakes; attended college at NDSU and the U of M. He spent a few years living in Fargo and in the heart of New York City, and loved having an abundance of entertainment, eateries, & nightlife at his fingertips. Like his dad, he grew up in the restaurant. Chili shares many of his dad's traits, including his father's deep voice (people love to hear his "Shawn impersonation") and his love of conversation, which makes Aiden a natural behind the bar. The transition back to Oakes and small town life was made easier by the number of friends who had also returned, the welcoming and progressive community, and the short distance to visit his brother & nieces. His love of travel & exploration has already taken him all over the world; if he's not busy whipping up a new cocktail recipe, he's undoubtedly planning his next trip. In this episode, we cover: How a third-generation restaurant family is navigating a new generational transition. Why younger generations are going out less (and what bars and restaurants are doing about it.) How craft cocktails, events, and experiences are replacing traditional bar culture. What actually brings young people back to small towns. Why community gathering places like restaurants matter more than we think. Links + Resources Mentioned: https://angrybeaverlodgeoakes.com/ Want to get your business in front of our audience? We are looking for podcast sponsors! Each season, we feature a select group of Small Business Partners—brands that share our mission to celebrate small-town life and big ideas. With a 4–6% average Facebook engagement rate (well above the industry average), 2,600+ loyal followers, and 45,000 monthly content views, we have an amazing, highly engaged audience of people who can't wait to learn more about you. When we feature you, your story, and your product/service, it's like a friend's recommendation, because it is. Want to know more? Reach out to us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org We have a membership! Join the GST Club — a virtual support community built for those leading change in small-town America. For $30/month, you'll get twice-monthly live calls with Rebecca, access to a private network of fellow small-town changemakers, replay recordings, frameworks, and early access to GST events. It's for anyone from volunteers and entrepreneurs to city officials who believe small towns deserve big ideas and better leadership. Part think-tank. Part pep-talk. Part creative jam session. All support. We Want to Hear From You! We really, really do, and if you'll let us, we'd love to feature your actual message just like we did with Terri's (with your permission, of course!) Some of the best parts about radio shows and podcasts are listener call-ins, so we've decided to make those a part of the Growing Small Towns Podcast. We really, really want to hear from you! We're have two "participation dance" elements of the show: "Small town humblebrags": Call in and tell us about something amazing you did in your small town so we can celebrate with you. No win is too small—we want to hear it all, and we will be excessively enthusiastic about whatever it is! You can call in for your friends, too, because giving shout-outs is one of our favorite things. "Solving Your Small-Town People Challenges": Have a tough issue in your community? We want to help. Call in and tell us about your problem, and we'll solve it on an episode of the podcast. Want to remain anonymous? Totally cool, we can be all secretive and stuff. We're suave like that. If you've got a humblebrag or a tricky people problem, call 701-203-3337 and leave a message with the deets. We really can't wait to hear from you! Get In Touch Have an idea for a future episode/guest, have feedback or a question, or just want to chat? Email us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org Subscribe + Review Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of The Growing Small Towns Show! If the information in our conversations and interviews has helped you in your small town, head out to Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Spotify, subscribe to the show, and leave us an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help us continue to deliver relevant, helpful content, but it will also help us reach even more small-town trailblazers just like you!

March 2, 2026Episode 51 hr 2 min

S6:E5 - How Lack of Accessible Transportation is Impacting Aging in Place in Rural Communities with Nicole Jones

Nicole Jones is the founder of Little Red Riding Hood, Inc., and today she joins us to talk about the hidden crisis of senior transportation in rural communities. Her story shows how one human moment can spark a solution that strengthens healthcare access, local economies, and community belonging. This episode is a testimony to how one moment and one person can inspire change, and a reminder to protect those who came before us so we can be stronger, more whole communities. About Nicole: I am a 35-year-old who has made it her life's mission to help seniors in rural areas after finding a blind senior man lost in the middle of the road. My passions include weight lifting, writing (I have a novel coming out soon as a hopeful way to raise funds for the company), and the Professional Women's Hockey League (go Montreal Victoire!). I live in the small town of Bigler, PA, with my four rescue cats, two turkeys, and twelve ducks. In this episode, we cover: How a chance encounter with a stranded senior sparked a rural transportation startup Why senior mobility is directly tied to rural economic health What makes rural transportation different from Uber or Lyft How technology can work with seniors instead of around them Why honoring aging residents is critical to growing small towns Links + Resources Mentioned: Website: www.LRRHINC.com Email: Nicole@lrrhinc.com Phone number: 412-376-5145 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleelizabethjones Want to get your business in front of our audience? We are looking for podcast sponsors! Each season, we feature a select group of Small Business Partners—brands that share our mission to celebrate small-town life and big ideas. With a 4–6% average Facebook engagement rate (well above the industry average), 2,600+ loyal followers, and 45,000 monthly content views, we have an amazing, highly engaged audience of people who can't wait to learn more about you. When we feature you, your story, and your product/service, it's like a friend's recommendation, because it is. Want to know more? Reach out to us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org We have a membership! Join the GST Club — a virtual support community built for those leading change in small-town America. For $30/month, you'll get twice-monthly live calls with Rebecca, access to a private network of fellow small-town changemakers, replay recordings, frameworks, and early access to GST events. It's for anyone from volunteers and entrepreneurs to city officials who believe small towns deserve big ideas and better leadership. Part think-tank. Part pep-talk. Part creative jam session. All support. We Want to Hear From You! We really, really do, and if you'll let us, we'd love to feature your actual message just like we did with Terri's (with your permission, of course!) Some of the best parts about radio shows and podcasts are listener call-ins, so we've decided to make those a part of the Growing Small Towns Podcast. We really, really want to hear from you! We're have two "participation dance" elements of the show: "Small town humblebrags": Call in and tell us about something amazing you did in your small town so we can celebrate with you. No win is too small—we want to hear it all, and we will be excessively enthusiastic about whatever it is! You can call in for your friends, too, because giving shout-outs is one of our favorite things. "Solving Your Small-Town People Challenges": Have a tough issue in your community? We want to help. Call in and tell us about your problem, and we'll solve it on an episode of the podcast. Want to remain anonymous? Totally cool, we can be all secretive and stuff. We're suave like that. If you've got a humblebrag or a tricky people problem, call 701-203-3337 and leave a message with the deets. We really can't wait to hear from you! Get In Touch Have an idea for a future episode/guest, have feedback or a question, or just want to chat? Email us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org Subscribe + Review Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of The Growing Small Towns Show! If the information in our conversations and interviews has helped you in your small town, head out to Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Spotify, subscribe to the show, and leave us an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help us continue to deliver relevant, helpful content, but it will also help us reach even more small-town trailblazers just like you!