The Small Town Tourist

Summary In this conversation, Kaitlyn Witman, CEO of Rainfactory, shares her journey from co-founding the company to leading it as a solo CEO. She discusses her early experiences in marketing, the challenges and successes of launching products, and the importance of adaptability in finding market fit. Caitlin also highlights her partnerships with major brands and her vision for the future of Rainfactory, emphasizing the need for innovative products that stand out in the market. Takeaways Her journey began with an internship at a consumer electronics warranty company. Rainfactory's first major success was with Jibo, the world's first family robot. Kaitlyn emphasizes the importance of adaptability in business. She enjoys the automation aspect of email marketing. Kaitlyn believes in opening up to opportunities in her career. Rainfactory focuses on products that do something better than competitors. Partnerships with established brands help Rainfactory grow. Kaitlyn aims to support innovative startups in 2025. She values the collaborative spirit of her team and clients. Host your own podcast with RSS.com: https://rss.com/?via=c026c9 Save 20% with Riverside for podcast recording and editing: https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abbey-graves Experiencing and exploring everything that makes small towns great. Abbey (The Small Town Tourist) sits down with people to share stories about the towns they live in, the cool services they provide, and more. Visit online at https://thesmalltowntourist.com/ and follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thesmalltowntourist/

Summary In this episode of the Small Town Tourist Podcast, Abbey reflects on her transformative year in 2024, marked by significant personal and professional milestones. She shares her journey of transitioning to full-time entrepreneurship, the challenges and joys of being a wedding DJ, and the excitement of launching new podcasts. Abbey also discusses selling her dog bandana business, moving into a new studio space, and her aspirations for 2025, emphasizing the importance of community support and the thrill of pursuing one's passions. Takeaways Abbey reflects on the emotional journey of starting her new studio space. The year 2024 was filled with unexpected growth and opportunities. Transitioning to full-time entrepreneurship was a significant milestone. Abbey found joy in being a wedding DJ, which she initially doubted. Launching new podcasts expanded her business and creative horizons. Selling her dog bandana business freed up time for new projects. Community support has been crucial in her entrepreneurial journey. Abbey's excitement for 2025 is palpable as she sets new goals. The importance of adaptability in entrepreneurship is highlighted. Abbey encourages listeners to pursue their passions and dreams. Host your own podcast with RSS.com: https://rss.com/?via=c026c9 Save 20% with Riverside for podcast recording and editing: https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abbey-graves Experiencing and exploring everything that makes small towns great. Abbey (The Small Town Tourist) sits down with people to share stories about the towns they live in, the cool services they provide, and more. Visit online at https://thesmalltowntourist.com/ and follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thesmalltowntourist/

Donate to Project 37: https://givebutter.com/project37venue More information on Project 37: https://www.project37mn.com/ Check out the fundraiser event on November 16th: https://www.facebook.com/events/530648119761465/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[]%7D In this episode of the Small Town Tourist Podcast, host Abbey speaks with Mike Lardy, co-owner of Bravo Burrito and board member of Project 37, a nonprofit initiative aimed at creating an all-ages music venue in St. Cloud. They discuss Mike's journey in the food and music industries, the importance of safe spaces for youth, and the ongoing fundraising efforts to secure a permanent venue. The conversation highlights the significance of community engagement and the potential impact of Project 37 on local youth and musicians. Takeaways Mike Lardy is passionate about creating safe spaces for youth in St. Cloud. Bravo Burrito has a cult following and is a staple in the community. Project 37 aims to raise $75,000 for a new music venue. The lack of all-ages venues has left a gap in the local music scene. Community support is crucial for the success of Project 37. Mike's journey in music began with a love for punk and alternative rock. Building a recording studio has been a 25-year journey for Mike. The importance of education and resources for young musicians is emphasized. Fundraising events are essential for community engagement and support. Creating opportunities for young people to perform is a key goal of Project 37. Host your own podcast with RSS.com: https://rss.com/?via=c026c9 Save 20% with Riverside for podcast recording and editing: https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abbey-graves Experiencing and exploring everything that makes small towns great. Abbey (The Small Town Tourist) sits down with people to share stories about the towns they live in, the cool services they provide, and more. Visit online at https://thesmalltowntourist.com/ and follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thesmalltowntourist/

Get tickets to Little Shop of Horrors: https://www.centralmntheatre.com/event-details/howard-ashmans-little-shop-of-horrors-the-musical-2024-11-14-19-00 In this episode of the Small Town Tourist Podcast, host Abbey explores the upcoming production of 'Little Shop of Horrors' with the cast and director from the Divergent Stars Theater Company. The conversation delves into the director's extensive experience, the unique challenges of staging the musical, and the dynamics of the cast, including the role of understudies. The episode highlights the excitement surrounding the production and the creative processes involved in bringing the show to life. In this engaging conversation, Abbey interviews various cast members of the production 'Little Shop of Horrors,' exploring their audition experiences, character interpretations, rehearsal dynamics, and the unique aspects of the show. The discussion highlights the collaborative nature of theater, the personal growth of the actors, and the importance of relationships both on and off stage. The stage manager shares insights into managing the chaos of rehearsals, emphasizing the significance of background characters in the production. Host your own podcast with RSS.com: https://rss.com/?via=c026c9 Save 20% with Riverside for podcast recording and editing: https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abbey-graves Experiencing and exploring everything that makes small towns great. Abbey (The Small Town Tourist) sits down with people to share stories about the towns they live in, the cool services they provide, and more. Visit online at https://thesmalltowntourist.com/ and follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thesmalltowntourist/

Long Prairie Craft Show and Sell: https://business.longprairie.org/events/Details/arts-craft-show-sell-1055772?sourceTypeId=Website In this conversation, Luan Thomas-Brunkhorst shares her journey from Pennsylvania to Long Prairie, Minnesota, where she has made significant contributions to the community through her role at the Chamber of Commerce. The discussion covers her experiences in teaching, the vibrant community life in Long Prairie, and the importance of local events like the Long Prairie Craft Fair, which she now organizes. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of the community, the diversity of its residents, and the positive impact of local businesses and events. Takeaways Luan has lived in Long Prairie since 1999. She transitioned from teaching to the Chamber of Commerce. The community is deeply connected and supportive. Local events foster a sense of belonging. The Long Prairie Craft Fair is a cherished tradition. Diversity in the community enriches local culture. The Chamber promotes both businesses and nonprofits. Events like the craft fair boost local economy. Volunteering is essential for community events. Long Prairie offers a unique small-town experience. Host your own podcast with RSS.com: https://rss.com/?via=c026c9 Save 20% with Riverside for podcast recording and editing: https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abbey-graves Experiencing and exploring everything that makes small towns great. Abbey (The Small Town Tourist) sits down with people to share stories about the towns they live in, the cool services they provide, and more. Visit online at https://thesmalltowntourist.com/ and follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thesmalltowntourist/