29 NOV 2022 · Today we’re talking to Dr. Ron Kuecker. Loving husband of Dianne, and the beloved father of Scott, Tom, and Dan. Ron has called Windom and Cottonwood County his home for over 55 years. A true gentleman and scholar with a fun, outgoing personality, Dr. Kuecker has served our community in numerous settings, including as an accomplished veterinarian; a committed county councilman and school board member; and as a thoughtful and thought-provoking columnist. Well-liked and respected by everyone he encounters, Ron is much more than a great guy… he’s a good man.

26 AUG 2022 · Today we are truly blessed to be talking with one of Cottonwood County’s finest, Marlowe Nelsen. Born in 1935, this Cottonwood County native has truly lived a life of admirable, committed service to our community, and to our great nation. With a combination of strong work ethic along with an unsurpassed internal drive and determination, Marlowe has found great success in numerous capacities throughout his life’s journey. A committed husband to Donna, a fabulous father to Karin & David, and a devoted community leader, Marlowe’s turbo charged energy level inspires and motivates missions, projects, ideas, and people in ways that drop jaws of amazement from all who know him. Marlowe is perpetual motion, and also possesses a laugh that literally shakes a room. We look forward to talking with, and learning from him today.

29 JUN 2022 · Today we are blessed to learn from, and about, Maria Schneider. Born, raised, and graduating high school in Windom, Minnesota, Maria has blazed a fascinating, inspirational trail of accomplishments and success. Now living in New York City and with a resume that includes 7 GRAMMY Awards and 14 GRAMMY Nominations, Maria is recognized as an NEA Jazz Master (our nation’s highest honor in Jazz), and was recently elected into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. A truly amazing talent and international treasure, Maria and her music have connected with millions of people across the globe. With grace and humility, she leads, builds, and teaches. She moves, enthuses, and inspires. And as you will learn during my discussion with Maria, she credits much of her success to the experiences growing up in Cottonwood County.

17 MAY 2022 · Today, we are extremely excited and certainly blessed to be talking with Westbrook native Karin Nelsen. Daughter of Marlo and Donna, sister to David, Karin lived the 60s, 70s, and early 80s in beautiful western Cottonwood County. After developing a strong foundation in southwestern Minnesota, and gaining some experience and education in Mankato, Minneapolis, and down south of the border in Iowa, Karin embarked on a fascinating adventure that led her all over the world leading teams, practicing law, and conducting business in Singapore, Switzerland, and Russia. But then, as she learned about 10 years ago, the gravitational pull from Minnesota is just too strong… and she moved back to Minneapolis. And then, after a few more years with Cargill, Karin returned to her true love – Football. Yes, as the Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer of the Minnesota Vikings, Karin really is the envy of each and every one of the 26,000 lawyers licensed in Minnesota: she’s the Vikings top lawyer!

31 MAR 2022 · Today we are blessed to be talking with Steve Kjorness. A terrific leader and true gentlemen, Steve is a distinguished coach and educator, a navy veteran, and the loving husband to the beautiful and always gracious Cathy. He is a committed father to three talented children (Mark, Stephanie, and Carla) and the grandfather to 11 beautiful grandkids. Steve has selflessly served people, communities, and ideas in countless ways. He’s not only a hall of fame coach, but also a hall of fame man.

24 FEB 2022 · Today we are blessed to be talking with the extremely talented Dennis “Digger” Phelps. Digger really is a “do it all” kind of guy who seems to be involved in almost everything. A retired teacher and coach, our long serving mayor & councilman in Westbrook is also a Navy veteran who served admirably in the Vietnam War. Digger is an exceptional musician, a skilled writer, an avid reader, and a proficient public speaker. He is active within his church (even presenting an occasional sermon) and serves as Commander of the VFW. He and his beautiful wife, Dolly, have two children (Becky and Jason), and are extraordinary volunteers within the community.

29 JAN 2022 · With a personality larger than the Chinook and Blackhawk helicopters he has flown on multiple deployments to the Middle East and Eastern Europe, Paul is a 36-year military veteran who successfully balanced life as a husband, father, soldier, and civilian. In this fun and interesting interview, Paul uses a great sense of humor to share his journey, to include some of the life lessons he’s learned over the years. Press “play” and listen to this Windom native talk about his “Mark Twain” childhood that helped shape his many adventures and accomplishments.

29 JAN 2022 · One of the smartest guys you will ever meet, Dr. Wiens is a world-renown scientist who leads NASA’s exploration of Mars. Recognized with knighthood by the French government for his many contributions to science, Dr. Wiens has authored a book called “Red Rover, Inside the Story of Robotic Space Exploration from Genesis to the Mars Rover Curiosity.” Cloaked with humility and a refreshing genuineness, this Mountain Lake native discusses his fascinating journey within and beyond this world, all while always staying focused on his most important job – and legacy -- as a husband and father.

29 JAN 2022 · A true national treasure, Darrel Eichner discusses his fascinating roads travelled during his 94 years on Earth. Born in the late 1920s, he lived through some of the most challenging times in our nation’s history. Ike’s journey included military service in the European theater at the end of World War II, and about 18 months later, a call up to serve in the Korean War. In this episode, Ike discusses his upbringing, military service, successes in the business world, and love for living in the Westbrook area.

29 JAN 2022 · Hear a little more about our story and mission in this introductory episode.