On today podcast episode we're with Michelle Hamilton of Dandelion Naturals in Hayfield, Minnesota (pop. 1,340). After 21 years in nursing, Michelle took a leap of faith and started making all natural soap and selling at farmer's markets. This business that started in her kitchen two years ago has now grown into an extensive product line and its own main street commercial building!

This week on the podcast we’re talking with Dan Jurek and Jeff Bajek of True North Basecamp in Crosby, Minnesota (pop. 2,386). Dan and Jeff are friends and, more recently, business partners after they saw an opportunity to create a better camping experience for visitors to the Cuyuna Recreation Area.

This week on the podcast we’re with Alise Sjostrom of Redhead Creamery in Brooten, Minnesota (pop. 743) where you will find ridiculously good, farmstead artisan cheese, made by Alise herself.

We first began childcare research in 2013, when we realized it was very hard to find an infant spot when we were looking for daycare for our own son. I then decided to open my own home daycare, while continuing to dream bigger and keep looking for the opportunity to open a childcare center.

Rural America is deeply rooted in my DNA. Growing up on a fourth-generation farm, our town’s population barely broke 100. After graduating, I left to pursue my dreams of college and a career, but the novelty of the large cities eventually wore off.

I have always had a great interest and love of all things skin care and scent and I’ve always loved to DIY pretty much anything and everything.

Welcome to McIntosh, Minnesota. Population 625 (give or take a few 😉). We are small rural community that has always had its roots in agriculture and are surrounded by similar-minded communities.

This week on the podcast we’re with Andrea Stordahl of Minnesota Rust in McIntosh, Minnesota. Andrea and her family are giving back to a community that gave so much to her and her family when they needed it most - by restoring main street and bringing in a handful of new businesses.