In this episode of the Love Story podcast, host Ashley Green interviews Barb Graves, mother-in-law to podcast producer Abbey. Barb shares her touching journey of meeting her late husband, Curt, in high school, their life together, and the challenges she faced after his unexpected passing. The discussion delves into the importance of cherishing moments, the struggles of moving forward, and the resilience required to rebuild life after a significant loss. Barb’s story is a heartfelt testament to love, survival, and the power of family.

00:00 Introduction to the Love Story Podcast

00:07 Meet Barb Graves: Abbey's Mother-in-Law

00:25 Barb's First Impressions of Abbey

01:45 Barb's High School Romance with Curt

04:27 Life After High School: Marriage and Family

07:25 Building a Life Together: Homes and Kids

12:31 Kurt's Personality and Family Life

14:41 Green Thumb Ad Break

15:18 Love Story After Dark: Bonus Content

16:14 Life on 40 Acres: Hunting and Family Challenges

19:25 A Normal Day Turns Tragic

19:42 The Search Begins

20:59 Finding Him in the Woods

21:54 Emergency Response and Realization

23:16 Coping with Loss

25:33 Reflecting on Their Life Together

29:03 Dealing with Practical Matters

37:24 Advice for Others

45:14 Looking Forward

46:15 Conclusion and Podcast Outro

Capturing the Magic of Every Love Story.

The Love Story Podcast is a weekly podcast and platform sharing the unique and inspiring love stories between two people. We will be sitting down with couples from all walks of life to share their stories and be inspired to find love in our own lives.

Connect with Us:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091585650777

https://www.instagram.com/lovestoryweddingshow/

https://www.thelovestoryweddingshow.com/

https://greenthumbetc.com/

In this inspiring episode of the Love Story Podcast, host Ashley Green sits down with Kristen Hannon, Advancement Director at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Minnesota. Kristen shares her unique journey from a career in banking to finding her true passion in nonprofit work, making a difference in the lives of local youth through mentorship.

Episode Highlights:

• Kristen’s career transition: From banking to nonprofit leadership
• The mission and impact of Big Brothers Big Sisters, the nation’s longest-running one-to-one mentoring organization
• How mentorship changes lives: Real stories of Bigs and Littles forming lifelong bonds
• The importance of community involvement and how anyone can become a mentor
• Current campaigns: “Paint the Town Green” and the Back to School recruitment drive
• How to get involved, volunteer, or support Big Brothers Big Sisters in Central Minnesota

Key Takeaways:

• Mentorship provides stability, confidence, and improved mental health for youth
• Big Brothers Big Sisters serves over 400 matches annually in Central Minnesota
• There is a growing need for mentors, especially in outlying areas like Elk River and Big Lake
• Anyone 18+ can become a Big, and kids ages 7-18 can be matched as Littles
• No special skills or financial commitment required—just a willingness to make a difference

Get Involved:

• Learn more or inquire about becoming a Big at www.bigdefenders.org
• Support the “Paint the Town Green” campaign (September 14–20) by wearing green, sharing on social media, or partnering as a business
• Follow Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Minnesota on social media for updates and events

Capturing the Magic of Every Love Story.

The Love Story Podcast is a weekly podcast and platform sharing the unique and inspiring love stories between two people. We will be sitting down with couples from all walks of life to share their stories and be inspired to find love in our own lives.

Connect with Us:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091585650777

https://www.instagram.com/lovestoryweddingshow/

https://www.thelovestoryweddingshow.com/

https://greenthumbetc.com/

In this heartwarming episode of the Love Story podcast, host Ashley Green interviews Jolene and Michael Gordon as they share their unique and magical love story. They recount meeting at a company party, navigating a long-distance relationship, and overcoming various personal and familial challenges. Jolene and Michael's story takes listeners through their journey from a bar encounter, through a heartfelt proposal, and into the blending of their families. The couple beautifully illustrates how their strengths complement each other, leading to a supportive, loving relationship. This episode highlights the importance of perseverance, honesty, and unconditional support in building a lasting partnership.

00:00 Welcome to the Love Story Podcast

00:07 Meet Jolene and Michael

00:36 The Company Party Encounter

02:52 The Long-Distance Relationship

11:21 First Date Challenges

14:52 Meeting the Family

18:01 Thanksgiving and Family Dynamics

21:21 A New Beginning: Moving to St. Cloud

22:00 Adjusting to Life Together

22:56 Navigating Parenthood and COVID

23:25 Career Changes and New Opportunities

24:47 Building a Blended Family

31:18 The Proposal and Engagement

37:35 Wedding Day and Family Dynamics

42:06 Reflections and Future Plans

Capturing the Magic of Every Love Story.

The Love Story Podcast is a weekly podcast and platform sharing the unique and inspiring love stories between two people. We will be sitting down with couples from all walks of life to share their stories and be inspired to find love in our own lives.

Connect with Us:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091585650777

https://www.instagram.com/lovestoryweddingshow/

https://www.thelovestoryweddingshow.com/

https://greenthumbetc.com/

About Love Story Wedding Show (January 11th, 2026)

At the Love Story Wedding Show, we believe that every love story is unique and deserves to be celebrated in a way that reflects the individuality of the couple. We understand that planning the perfect wedding is a journey, and we are here to help guide you on your way! Celebrating Love, Inspiring Dreams. The Love Story wedding Show isn’t just an event; it’s an experience designed to inspire and guide couples on their journey to creating the wedding of their dreams. Whether you’re newly engaged, in the midst of wedding planning, or simply dreaming of that special day, our show is tailored to meet your every need.