Discover how disused rail corridors can transform into vibrant lifelines for rural communities with Eric Oberg, Senior Director of Programs at Rails to Trails Conservancy, as our guide. Eric shares his wealth of knowledge on how trails can foster economic growth and healthier lifestyles by linking people, places, and experiences. You’ll hear how communities like Mountain City, Tennessee, are revitalizing their local economies through outdoor recreation, turning unique local assets into thriving destinations and how you can start the same journey for your community.

Discover how Healthy Flavors is helping to revolutionize school meals and combat health issues with Dan Spatz, co-owner of Healthy Flavors Farms, and Karen Brazil, program manager of the CHEF Program. Listen as Dan reveals their mission to pivot away from industrial food systems towards sustainable farming practices at their farms in Tennessee and Arkansas. By "planting with purpose, harvesting health," they are not only growing culinary herbs for local supermarkets but also advocating for a return to local food systems that once shaped our communities and inspiring a systemic shift towards healthier school meals nationwide.

What if you started your public service journey at the age of nine? On our latest episode, we sit down with Kenneth Korn, the State Director of USDA Rural Development for Oklahoma, to explore his incredible path from a young public servant to a key figure in rural development. Kenneth shares his unique experience of launching a political campaign from Beijing, China at just 22, and discusses his deep-rooted passion for uplifting rural communities. Learn how USDA Rural Development is transforming rural America under Kenneth's leadership.

Discover how Michelle Mobbs turned a modest dream into Atoka, Oklahoma's beloved Truly Favorite Bakery. Michelle reveals the nitty-gritty of establishing her bakery on a shoestring budget to ensure affordability without compromising on quality. Learn how her creative use of recycled materials not only cuts costs but also creates a charming and unique atmosphere that keeps customers coming back.

Michelle's story is more than just about baking; it's about building a community. We dive into the essence of authentic customer service in small towns, exploring how Michelle's past as a teacher influences her heartfelt approach to making customers feel valued. Hear firsthand how the revitalization of Atoka’s downtown area has spurred a sense of unity and support among local businesses, and how personal connections can transform a business into a community cornerstone.

Finally, gain invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs as Michelle shares her transition from a sewing shop to a bustling bakery with decades of baking expertise. From the overwhelming support of local residents to her initial fears of the unknown, Michelle offers advice on starting small-town businesses and the importance of balancing commercial success with community service. Don’t miss Michelle's heartfelt tips and inspiring journey, filled with personal anecdotes and practical wisdom.

Could a small town's dream to revitalize its downtown become a reality? Discover the inspiring story of Atoka, Oklahoma, and the community efforts that have breathed new life into this historic town. We sit down with City Manager Danny Delay and Economic Development Director Carol Ervin, who reveal their strategies for transforming Atoka. From extensive planning to community-driven initiatives, learn how they've harnessed local and external support—including a boost from country music legend Reba McEntire—to turn their ambitious vision into a thriving reality.

Join us as Danny and Carol share the behind-the-scenes formation of Team Atoka and the pivotal implementation of a TIF district, breathing new life into long-neglected buildings. Hear about their collaboration with the Choctaw Nation, which played a crucial role in the town's economic resurgence. We explore Reba's Place, a unique three-story venue that has become a symbol of Atoka's revival, blending restaurant, entertainment, and retail to attract both locals and tourists alike. This episode highlights the power of collaboration and the vital role of strategic investments in driving small-town success.

We also delve into the lessons learned from Atoka's journey, emphasizing the importance of transparency, community engagement, and flexible planning. Danny and Carol discuss how they’ve navigated challenges, engaged critics, and leveraged federal incentives to support their goals. Gain insights into creating a supportive, diverse council and the transformative power of community-driven projects.

What if your past experiences could shape a brighter future for others? Pam Ware, an inspiring entrepreneur, mentor, and motivational speaker, joins us on Small Talk to share her transformative journey from a licensed mortician and chief death investigator to becoming a guiding light for youth. Her firsthand encounters with the stark realities of life and death have fueled her passion for preventing tragic outcomes by inspiring better choices among young people. Pam recounts her powerful experience speaking to a juvenile court class, where she used her graphic knowledge to underline the importance of positive decision-making.

Throughout the episode, Pam emphasizes the necessity of making better decisions today for a brighter tomorrow. Her heartfelt reflections on the emotional weight of wasted potential offer a compelling message that resonates with kids, parents, guardians, and mentors alike. We delve into Pam's unique approach, which uses vivid descriptions of autopsies and crime scenes to highlight the dire consequences of poor decisions. Her transition from a professional background steeped in the aftermath of death to a proactive role in guiding youth underscores the profound impact that role models can have in our communities.

Additionally, Pam shares insights into her entrepreneurial journey, supported by Communities Unlimited. From setting up accounting systems to strategic financial planning, she outlines the meticulous process of building a successful business foundation. Pam also opens up about her travel experiences to places like Auschwitz and Cape Town, which have profoundly shaped her views on empathy and appreciation.
Join us to be inspired by Pam's story and learn how you too can foster positive change in your community.

Discover the untold story of America's food heroes—the dedicated individuals revolutionizing school cafeterias. Today's guest, Jiwon Jun from Eat Real, takes us on an inspiring journey into the heart of school food programs. By listening, you'll uncover the challenges and successes that come with integrating nutritious, locally-sourced meals into schools, especially in agricultural-rich rural areas. Together, we examine how the simple act of improving what's on our children's plates can ripple through communities, strengthening economies and fostering sustainable food practices.

Our conversation with Jiwon Jun reveals the sheer dedication of school food service staff, who serve an astounding 7 billion meals annually to 30 million students. We celebrate their relentless commitment to student health and their innovative approaches to sourcing high-quality local ingredients amidst tight schedules and regulations. These tireless warriors of well-being are not just filling bellies; they're empowering young minds with the fuel they need to thrive, while simultaneously bolstering local farmers and economies. It's about more than just food; it's about cultivating a better future for our kids and our communities.

By the end of our chat, you'll be moved by the personal stories that led both myself and our guest to champion school food reform, and you'll be armed with actionable insights on how small, rural communities can embark on this transformative path. We shine a light on districts like Paragould, Arkansas, and the Milan Special School District in Tennessee, where local produce and meats are making their way onto lunch trays, proving that change is possible, one meal at a time. Join us as we toast to these unsung heroes—the architects of a healthier generation—and explore how each of us can contribute to this noble cause.

When you think hot sauce, you may think scorching heat, but James Louis of Holy Fire Foods marches to the beat of a different drum. His creations are a testament that the secret to a great hot sauce isn't just the heat; it's the harmony of flavors that dance on your palate while still giving that kick you crave. In our intriguing chat, James reveals the roots of his culinary adventure, from his own garden to the shelves of hopefully 100 stores by the end of the year.

There's a certain magic in building a business from the ground up, and our guest knows it all too well. Starting with neighborhood door-knocking and evolving to ambitious retail scaling, James spills the beans on the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of entrepreneurship. He credits programs like the USDA's Path to Prosperity and Communities Unlimited for giving Wholly Fire Foods the structure and strategy it needed to blaze forward. This episode is more than just hot sauce; it's about the entrepreneurial spirit, the seasoning of support systems, and the recipe for asking the right questions to keep the business flame burning bright.

Whether you're a hot sauce aficionado or a budding business thinker, this conversation will leave you with a taste of inspiration and perhaps a bit more courage to turn up the heat on your own endeavors.