Small Town Big Business

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...

In this episode of 'Small Town Big Business,' Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams chat with John and Missy Brown, owners of John Brown's on the Square in Marion, Illinois. The couple shares their journey from bartending to owning a cornerstone bar adored by locals and visitors alike. They delve into the history of their historic building, the challenges faced, including a considerable fire and the...

This episode features the owners of Starview Vineyards, Brett and Regina Morrison, as they discuss their journey into the winemaking industry. From Brett’s humble beginnings with a summer job to learning the trade in Pennsylvania and finally establishing their vineyard in Southern Illinois, the Morrisons share insights into their business operations and community involvement. The episode also high...

In this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams sit down with Matt Throgmorton, owner of Byassee Music and Sound in Marion, Illinois. Matt discusses the extensive services his store offers, from band instruments and accessories to sound installation for churches and businesses. He shares his personal history with music, from singing in Southern Gospel quartets...

From Physical Therapy to Creative Entrepreneurship: Jennifer Colbert's Journey with Bits and Pieces Art and Antiques In this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Deb Barnett and Russ Williams interview Jennifer Colbert, the owner of Bits and Pieces Art and Antiques located in Marion, Illinois. Jennifer shares her transition from a 27-year career in physical therapy to becoming a small busines...

In this episode of the Small Town Big Business Podcast, co-hosts Deb Barnett (Southern Illinois Now) and Russ Williams (Ethos) sit down with Tyler and Emily Dihle of Dihle Law Firm. Discover how this dynamic duo built their business, balanced family life, and embraced the power of authenticity to thrive in Southern Illinois. 📌 Topics Covered: Tyler’s transition to entrepreneurship and opening Dih...

🎉 Welcome to the 100th Episode of the Small Town Big Business Podcast! 🎉 In this milestone episode, we’re celebrating the incredible journey of Small Town Big Business ! Host Russ Williams is joined by co-creators and co-hosts past and present, including Allison Hassler, Jennifer Olson, Deb Barnett, and guest host Joe, for a live event filled with laughs, stories, and the inspiring voices of Sou...

n this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Jennifer Olson and Russell Williams sit down with John Cavaness, owner of Jackson Gray Insurance. Celebrating over 75 years in business, Jackson Gray has become a pillar of the Marion, Illinois, community. John shares his journey of returning home from St. Louis to lead the family business, the importance of community ties, and how adapting to moder...

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

In this episode of Small Town Big Business, hosts Deb Barnett and Russell Williams interview Sam Kuhnert, the founder of NubAbility, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering limb-different youth through sports. Sam shares his inspiring journey growing up in Du Quoin, Illinois, where he overcame skepticism and adversity due to his limb difference. Despite being told he wouldn't succeed in sports, Sam pu...

In this episode, hosts Jennifer Olson (Director of Business Development for Marion, Illinois) and Russell Williams (Director of Ethos) sit down with Beverly Daniel Stewart, the owner of A Taste of Bev Catering & More, to explore her inspiring entrepreneurial story. Beverly shares how she turned her love for cooking into a business, the challenges she faced, and the incredible support from her...

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

In this episode, we dive into the story of Jackie Robbins, the passionate entrepreneur behind Honey Heist Mead Company, nestled in the rolling hills of Southern Illinois in Cobden. 🌾🐝 From her fascinating journey in the Marine Corps to her love for flavors and the unexpected rise of her meadery, Jackie shares how she and her team are pioneering a unique business in a small town. Discover the mag...

The Small Town Big Business podcast episode features Benny's Italian Foods, a family-owned restaurant with a rich history in Marion, Illinois. Bennie's has been a staple in the community for decades, known for its traditional Italian dishes made in-house and its deep commitment to customer service. The restaurant is currently owned and operated by John Hill, who shares his journey of maintaining t...

Welcome to Small Town Big Business, the podcast that explores big business in small-town rural America! Hosted by Jennifer Olson, Director of Business Development for the City of Marion, and Russell Williams, Director of Ethos, this episode features a special guest, Kara Flaherty, owner of Milkweed Provisions in Marion, Illinois. 🧀🍷 Kara shares her journey from St. Louis to Marion, turning her e...

In this episode of "Small Town Big Business," hosts Jennifer Olson, the Director of Business Development for the City of Marion, and Russell Williams, Director of Ethos, sit down with Brandy Renshaw, a third-generation farmer and owner of Farmer's Daughter Boutique and the Casper House in Anna, Illinois. Brandy shares her journey from opening a boutique in her hometown of Olive Branch to revitaliz...

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.susanwillisphotography.com/ Eight Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing for Headshots pdf guide: https://www.susanwillisphotography.co...

Recorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois. https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Our guest: http://www.carbondalenewschool.com/in... SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Watermark Auto Group: https://www.watermark.auto/ Fowler Heating & Cooling: https://fowlerheatingandcooling.com/ Swinford Media Group: https://swinfordpublications.c...

n this episode of Small Town Big Business, we chat with Chris Egelston, a leading figure at the Midland Institute for Entrepreneurship. Chris shares his insights into the Institute's mission to empower young entrepreneurs through innovative educational programs like the CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities) program. We delve into the transformative impact of experiential learning, the chall...

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

Recorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois. https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Our guest: In this episode, hosts Russell Williams and Jennifer Olson interview Matt Mavert, the new owner of Hale's Automotive. Matt shares his journey from growing up in a family of car enthusiasts in Steeleville, Illinois, to taking over Hale's Automoti...

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

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

Recorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois. https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Our guest: www.banterra.bank SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Watermark Auto Group: https://www.watermark.auto/ Fowler Heating & Cooling: https://fowlerheatingandcooling.com/ Swinford Media Group: https://swinfordpublications.com/ Arcadia Wealth Grou...

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.louiespandr.market/