Dream Catcher - The Podcast!

In this special 300th episode of the Dream Catcher Podcast, host James Coma interviews Mark Rudd Larsen, the podcast's creator.  They discuss the journey of podcasting, the importance of pursuing dreams, overcoming adversity, and the role of mindset in achieving success.  Mark shares personal stories of growth, the significance of discipline, and the power of intuition.  The conversation emph...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher Podcast, I interview  George Katrouzos, owner of the Coney Island Lunch Room in Grand Island, Nebraska. We discuss the rich history of the restaurant, which has been in George's family since 1933, and the importance of community and family connections in running a successful business.  George shares insights into the restaurant's menu, the legacy of h...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher Podcast, I talk with Tim Craig, the owner of Penny Coffee Roasters in Kearney, Nebraska.  Tim shares his journey of moving back to the Midwest, his passion for coffee roasting, and the unique concept behind his Penny Coffee Roasters coffee shop.  The conversation delves into the evolution of coffee culture, the importance of community engagement, and the person...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher podcast, I speak with Marilyn Brown about her life experiences, the importance of estate planning, and the necessity of having a will.  Marilyn shares her personal journey, including the loss of her husband and the steps she took to ensure her family's future.  She emphasizes the need for everyone, especially younger individuals, to consider their estate p...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher Podcast, host Mark Larsen speaks with Mikaela Krueger, the owner of Optika Curated Eyewear.  They discuss Mikaela's journey from Belleville, Kansas to Hastings, Nebraska, her passion for design and art, and the importance of connection and community in her business.  Mikaela emphasizes ethical practices in her eyewear selection, the role of travel in her b...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher Podcast, host Mark Larsen interviews Fah Bislow, owner of Smiley Sweet Cakes in Franklin, Nebraska.  Fah shares her journey from Thailand to Nebraska, her passion for baking, and the challenges she faced in adapting to a new culture and language.  She discusses the importance of community support, her experiences with family connections, and the joy of serving...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher Podcast, host Mark Larsen interviews Kenna Griffith, the owner of Three Pink Elephants, a unique store in Clay Center and Hastings  Nebraska.  Kenna shares her journey from wanting to be a soldier to becoming an entrepreneur, detailing the inspiration behind her store's name and the challenges she faced in building her business.  The conversation explores...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher podcast, host Mark Larsen speaks with Sydney Williams, the owner of Daily Dose Coffee, about her journey in the coffee industry, the importance of community, and the challenges of entrepreneurship.  Sydney shares her experiences of opening two coffee shops in Nebraska, her passion for travel, and the significance of having a support system.  The conversation hi...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher podcast, Mark interviews Caroline and Beth, the owners of What the Dickens British Bakery Cafe in Hastings, Nebraska. They share their personal backgrounds and discuss the story behind their business, highlighting their entrepreneurial journey and love for great food.  They further share their unique journey from their backgrounds in education to opening a cafe...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher podcast, host Mark Larsen interviews Carla Scheierman, a firefighter and EMT from Hastings, Nebraska.  Carla shares her journey from aspiring artist to her current role in emergency services, discussing her passion for art therapy and the importance of community engagement.  The conversation also touches on family life, travel experiences, and the significance...

**I apologize for the slight reverb of JR's audio at the beginning of the podcast. In this episode of the Dream Catcher podcast, JR Spear shares his journey from a troubled youth to a successful entrepreneur and business coach.  He discusses his military experience, the challenges he faced, and how a life-changing event in Iraq shifted his perspective.  JR also delves into his passion for tea...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher podcast, host Mark Larsen interviews Nishta Lamsal, a Nepalese student and entrepreneur living in Kearney, Nebraska.  They discuss Nishta's background, her experiences in Nepal, and her journey in establishing a jewelry business aimed at empowering women.  The conversation also touches on her aspirations in public health, the challenges she faced, and her...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher Podcast, Mark and Cheryl discuss the essence of dreams, the importance of taking action, and the transformative power of travel.  They share personal stories, including how cancer prompted them to pursue their dreams more actively.  The conversation emphasizes the beauty of local travel, the significance of health and wellness, and the impact of small gestures...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher podcast, host Mark Larsen speaks with Stan Mangers about his life journey, dreams, and the decline of the American family.  Stan shares his background, including his family's  roots and his aspirations of becoming an actor.  He reflects on the cultural and political changes in America, emphasizing the importance of family values and spirituality.  The conv...

In this episode of the Dreamcatcher Podcast, Mark and Cheryl Larsen discuss the critical importance of human connection in today's society.  They explore how modern conveniences have led to a decline in personal interactions, resulting in loneliness and a lack of meaningful relationships.  The conversation emphasizes the value of shared experiences, the need for kindness and respect in intera...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher podcast, Mark discusses the pervasive role of fear in preventing individuals from pursuing their dreams and living fulfilling lives. Mark also shares personal anecdotes and insights on how fear can manifest in various aspects of life from public speaking to travel. Further emphasize is placed on the importance of recognizing and overcoming these fears. Mark enc...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher Podcast, I interview Patrick McClure, the owner of Sprockets Famous Freedom Dogs.  Patrick shares the story behind his food truck business, which he started in 2013 after inheriting equipment from a friend.  He discusses the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, which unexpectedly led to growth as he created his own events to reach customers.  The c...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher podcast, I interview 16-year-old Brian Burkhardt, a young bull rider from Nebraska.  Brian shares his journey into bull riding, the injuries he has faced, and how they have impacted his aspirations.  He discusses his interests in military service, cattle ranching, and his hobbies, including fishing and motocross.  The conversation also touches on his relationsh...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher podcast, I speak with Danielle Helzer, the owner of Rooted Books and Gifts in Grand Island, Nebraska.  Danielle shares her journey from being a high school English teacher to opening a community-focused bookstore.  She also discusses her passion for fostering a sense of belonging, the importance of diverse literature, and her experiences with banned books.  The...

In this episode of the Dream  Catcher Podcast, I speak with Tuan Pham, the owner of Pham's Coffee and Boba in Grand Island, Nebraska.  Tuan shares his journey from growing up in Vietnam to becoming an entrepreneur in the coffee and boba industry.  He discusses the strategic decisions behind opening his second location, the unique offerings of his business, and his aspirations for employee own...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher podcast, I interview Damie Elder-Hiscock, the owner of Fariner Bakery in Ashland, Nebraska. We discuss Damie's journey from a self-taught baker to running a community-focused bakery that emphasizes quality pastries and a diverse wine selection.  The conversation covers the challenges of opening a new business, the importance of community engagement, and th...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher podcast, I talk with Marcy Brandt, the director of the Minden Opera House in Nebraska.  We discuss the rich history of the Opera House, its renovation, and the diverse range of events it hosts, from weddings to community theater.  As the Opera House approaches its 25th anniversary, Marcy shares exciting plans for celebrations and reflects on the challenges and...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher Podcast, I reflect on the importance of embracing joy and gratitude in everyday life.  I further discuss how society often rushes through life, missing out on the beauty around them, and emphasizes the need for connection and perspective.  Through personal anecdotes, I highlight the significance of celebrating life's blessings, maintaining a positive outlo...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher Podcast, I speak with Barron Damon, a nonprofit leader and author, about his journey from a traumatic experience in college to a fulfilling career in philanthropy and coaching. Barron Damon is a Certified Philanthropic Coach (ICF) with over 20 years of experience working as a Nonprofit Executive. Barron is currently the Managing Partner of the Business of Life...

In this episode of the Dream Catcher Podcast, I speak with US Army retired Barry Horner. Barry has 40 years experience in the computer industry, programming and server/desktop administration. 41 years of Army and Army Reserve Service where he specialized in Leadership, Project management, Personal management, Exchange, SQL, IIS, Storage, Printing and HP EVA! With all of this Barry walked away from...