In this episode of the Get Out And Try Podcast, host Katie Axel catches up with Steph, who we first met in Season 4. We revisit her journey with Santosha Studio and The Garage Bikes + Brews and learn about the exciting changes ahead. As Steph shifts her focus solely to The Garage Bikes + Brews, she shares her decision-making process and the factors…

In this episode, we sit down with Sasha Skendzel, the new owner of Belle Ame Vineyard in River Falls, WI, which will soon host public and private events. After a long healthcare career, Sasha decided to enter the event venue industry and the wine industry with Belle Ame. We discuss her journey to becoming a winery owner and how her background in he…

Derek Hom talks about quitting his engineering job, building a food trailer (including plumbing, electrical, etc.), learning how to make Belgian Liege Waffles, setting up his business, and selling his waffles and coffee at a brewery just six weeks later. Wilder Waffle Co. is now in business, and you can enjoy their waffles and coffee at various eve…

Matthew Stepaniak talks about Limitless Cycling - the non-profit organization dedicated to improving the mental and physical health of our community. The Limitless Cycling website currently states: LIMITLESS CYCLING WAS FOUNDED IN 2019 TO IMPROVE THE MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH OF OUR COMMUNITY. WE BRING PILOTED ADAPTIVE BICYCLES TO SENIORS, VETERAN…

REPLAY: In this episode, Eli Snyder talks about the Financial Solutions program that is available with FamilyMeans. We talk about who the debt relief program is for, what the program entails, and how they can get in touch with FamilyMeans to get started. From FamilyMeans.com: Eli Snyder joined FamilyMeans in July 2009 as a credit counselor, bringin…

Jessica Turtle is back to talk about the recent fire just 74 days after the Grand Opening of the Natural Heritage Art Centre. The Natural Heritage Art Centre website currently states: We are sorry to report our business suffered irreparable damage during the fire at Red Bird Music Store. There's a long and uncertain road ahead. Our incredible commu…

Michelle and Darren are the Dynamic Duo behind Begonia and Bench: Sustainably-made candles that light your space and help the planet. In this interview, you'll learn about their partnership with the National Forest Foundation and how their candles have helped plant thousands of trees. We also talk about their upcoming promotion that they have coine…

Author, Heidi Barr talks about her latest book "Collisions of Earth and Sky"(released on February 3, 2023). We also talk about Heidi's past work, her Coaching role, what gives her hope, and more. Visit Heidi's website at: https://heidibarr.com/ Grab your copy of the book today! Here is where you can find it: Valley Bookseller The Looking Glass Twin…

We wrap up Season 5 with a special announcement regarding the future of the Get Out And Try Podcast (HINT: Season 6 returns on February 8, 2023). In a special holiday replay, Santa sits down to talk with Katie about the upcoming BIG DAY! You can visit and enjoy Cookies with Santa at Miracle at Big Rock. Enjoy! Special thanks to episode sponsor: Big…

Brad Hansen, owner of Big Rock Creek, talks about how his family decided to purchase the property and bring you Miracle at Big Rock. He talks about the rich history of the property and how it hadn't been open to the public in previous years. Previously owned by railroad tycoons, a fluke lead to the property being placed up for sale. When the Hansen…

Minnesota Made is an apparel company based out of Stillwater, MN. Founder and Owner, Sarah Schroeder talks about the journey to what is now her beautiful business, Minnesota Made. With a passion for the environment, Sarah has made it a priority to ensure that her products are aligned with her values - including working with WRAP-certified factories…

Chef Tucky has a story that you need to hear! This incredible story showcases how Tucky looked at every moment in his life as a beautiful opportunity. Eager to learn and willing to do whatever it takes, Tucky has proven time and time again that he is capable of whatever he puts his mind to. NOW you have the opportunity to see Tucky in action. He ha…

In this episode, Jessica Turtle talks about the upcoming Grand Opening of the Natural Heritage Art Centre located in Osceola, WI. Jessica describes the different areas of the space, including the solo exhibition space, the Elm Tree Story Booth where you can immerse yourself into the art through your personal stories, the market for local artists an…

In this episode, Eli Snyder talks about the Financial Solutions program that is available with FamilyMeans. We talk about who the debt relief program is for, what the program entails, and how they can get in touch with FamilyMeans to get started. From FamilyMeans.com: Eli Snyder joined FamilyMeans in July 2009 as a credit counselor, bringing his pe…

In this episode, Jessica & Tiffany Schmidt talk about all things sweet. The Schweet Stop is a candy and soda shop that is stocked with nostalgic candies, new trending candies, international treasures and local delights. We talk about how they stay ahead of the latest candy trends on TikTok, their decade boxes that offer a mystery mix from your favo…

In this episode, John Duntley talks about River Valley Trails and their upcoming annual Autumn Trek event. This year is the 23rd year for this event where riders of all abilities can choose from four ride loops: 25mi, 45mi, 65mi and 101mi. John also talks about the bike safety programs as well as other community events that River Valley Trails has …

This podcast short revisits an interview with Allissa Obler from Mudita Wellness. In this short, we talk about the beginning stages of planning River Valley Yoga Festival - happening in September 23-25, 2022. Love this podcast short? Be sure to check out the full interview found in Season 3 of the Get Out And Try Podcast! Full interview bi-weekly e…

This podcast short revisits a popular Season 4 episode featuring Christine Melby from Two Bees and a Bud in New Richmond, WI - a You-Pick Flower Farm. In this short, we talk about what it means to be a You-Pick Flower Farm and what people can expect to experience when they visit the farm. Love this podcast short? Be sure to check out the full inter…

Listen to Susan Haugh, Program Director at Belwin Conservancy talk about the Bison Prairie at Belwin Conservancy. The Bison Prairie is a partnership that Belwin has had for many years with North Star Bison. Want to see upcoming events in the St. Croix Valley? Visit Getoutandtry.com often and stay up-to-date on all of the events and happenings in th…

Hudson's St. Croix RiverFest is back this year from June 19-23, 2022. Listen to Katie talk about some of the amazing activities happening at this year's festival. Check out Stcroixriverfest.org for a full festival lineup. Want to see upcoming events in the St. Croix Valley? Visit Getoutandtry.com often and stay up-to-date on all of the events and h…

Listen to Dennis Merkel and Ryan Haugland of St. Croix County Parks talk about the different ways to enjoy the summer at St. Croix County Parks. We talk about park passes, watercraft rental, camping, and more! Check out our full blog post here: https://blog.getoutandtry.com/blog/summer-fun-with-st.-croix-county-parks Want to see upcoming events in …

In our first podcast short of the season, Brad Hanson talks about the history of Big Rock Creek - dating all the way back to the 1870s. Check out the camping and glamping available this summer at Big Rock Creek and enjoy all of the beauty of the land. Want to see upcoming events in the St. Croix Valley? Visit Getoutandtry.com often and stay up-to-d…

Listen to Amy Frischmon talk about the five generation history of their family owned business consisting of Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours, Taylors Falls Canoe and Kayak Rental and Wildwood Campground. In part 2, Amy talks about the canoe, kayak and camping aspects of the business. Want to see upcoming events in the St. Croix Valley? Visit Getouta…

Listen to Amy Frischmon talk about the five generation history of their family owned business consisting of Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours, Taylors Falls Canoe and Kayak Rental and Wildwood Campground. It all began back to 1906 when her great-grandfather started in the boat business at the young age of 16. PLUS! Learn about the different ways you …

Part 2 of the interview with Stephanie Johnson from The Garage Bikes and Brews in River Falls, WI. It's part bicycle shop and part brewery and a whole lot of fun for the whole family. Listen to Stephanie Johnson talk about the brewery side of the business as well as honoring her Great Aunt Dorothy - PLUS much more. Be sure to check them out when yo…

The Garage Bikes and Brews in River Falls, WI offers one of the coolest vibes around. It's part bicycle shop and part brewery and a whole lot of fun for the whole family. Listen to Stephanie Johnson talk about how it all came about - how they became a reputable bike shop as well as a reputable brewery. Be sure to check them out when you get the cha…

Listen to Stephanie Johnson talk about the community at Santosha Studio - a studio where you can cycle, practice yoga and meditation, work on your strength with TRX or participate in an upbeat class called Pound. Stephanie also talks about sunsetting her 35 year career in healthcare and what she's looking forward to for the future. Special thanks t…

Learn about the Green Business Directory - an initiative from Sustainable Stillwater. Wendy Gorski and Kelsey Depew talk about how why it was started, how businesses can join, and what their ultimate goal is with the Green Business Directory. Special thanks to episode sponsor: Valley Agencies Want to see upcoming events in the St. Croix Valley? Vis…

Learn about Sustainable Stillwater out of Stillwater, MN. Wendy Gorski and Kelsey Depew talk about how the organization was started, the initiatives that they are working on, and how people can get involved with the organization. Want to see upcoming events in the St. Croix Valley? Visit Getoutandtry.com often and stay up-to-date on all of the even…

Christine Melby from Two Bees and a Bud:You-Pick Flower Farm in New Richmond, WI talks about all of the upcoming events that you can Get Out And Try this summer! She also talks about her motto that has helped her through her ventures as an entrepreneur. Want to see upcoming events in the St. Croix Valley? Visit Getoutandtry.com often and stay up-to…

Christine Melby from Two Bees and a Bud:You-Pick Flower Farm in New Richmond, WI talk about how it all started on the farm, lessons that Christine learned along the way, and how it works when you show up to pick your own flowers. Want to see upcoming events in the St. Croix Valley? Visit Getoutandtry.com often and stay up-to-date on all of the even…

Bread Art in Bayport, MN is a small business bakery that is run by Heather Peterson and her husband. In this episode, listen to Heather talk about how it all got started and the learning curves that came from leaving corporate America to be a full-time bakery owner. April is Parkinson's Awareness Month and the Peterson family has been greatly impac…

Guest host Ken Coenen with Raiderstreaming.com is back and flying solo on this interview with an organization that is near and dear to his heart - The Rhino's Foundation. The Rhino's Foundation is dedicated to providing direct cash donations to families in Western Wisconsin affected by cancer. We are also committed to providing financial gifts in t…

Eagle Eye Farm is a family run Wisconsin Alpaca Farm in River Falls, WI. Be sure to check out part 1 of this interview where Dawn and Kerri talk about how they went from being in the medical field to having an Alpaca Farm. This episode is Part 2 where we talk about all of the different ways that the community can Get Out And Try Eagle Eye Farm - fr…

Eagle Eye Farm is a family run Wisconsin Alpaca Farm in River Falls, WI. In part 1 of this interview, Dawn and Kerri talk about how they went from being in the medical field to having an Alpaca Farm. They moved from Duluth, MN to River Falls, WI to grow their farm and pursue showing alpaca. We talk about the seasonality of caring for alpaca, showin…

Bridget Shoquist is back on the podcast to share what has evolved with her business. In part 2, we pick up our conversation about channeling for a religious person. We also talk about the current workplace dynamic and how channeling could be a part of those going through a career shift. Special thanks to episode sponsor: First State Bank and Trust …

Bridget Shoquist is back on the podcast to share what has evolved with her business. When we first spoke, she was about five months in with adding channeling to her coaching services. Now with over a year under her belt, she is here to share what is new! Want to see upcoming events in the St. Croix Valley? Visit Getoutandtry.com often to stay up-to…

Occasions With Character is BACK! Katie talks with Melissa Katz, Founder of Occasions With Character. We talk about how she decided to start her business, costume design, and Melissa even pegs Katie for a character! Find out about their upcoming events - they are back beginning in April 2022. Want to see upcoming events in the St. Croix Valley? Vis…

Check out Part 2 of the interview with Jeremiah Walters from Wild Rivers Conservancy. Have you always wanted to try ice fishing but you don't know where to start? Wild Rivers Conservancy has you covered with their 'Let's Go Ice Fishing!' program. Listen to Katie talk to Jeremiah Walters, Naturalist from Wild Rivers Conservancy. She asks all of the …

Have you always wanted to try ice fishing but you don't know where to start? Wild Rivers Conservancy has you covered with their 'Let's Go Ice Fishing!' program. Listen to Katie talk to Jeremiah Walters, Naturalist from Wild Rivers Conservancy. She asks all of the 101 questions you might think to ask before you head out to go ice fishing. Want to se…

It's been a cold winter so far and this episode is here to warm you up! Katie talks with Jeff from St. Croix Sauna - currently on site at Thor's Hard Cider. This is a brand new concept to our area and we talk about everything you can expect when you Get Out And Try St. Croix Sauna! Want to see upcoming events in the St. Croix Valley? Visit Getoutan…

This is Part 2 of the interview with Dennis Merkel and Ryan Haugland from St. Croix County Parks. Big Thanks to Ken Coenen from Raider Streaming and KC Films Pro for letting me test out his fancy audio equipment for this interview. Join us as we talk to Dennis and Ryan about all of the different properties throughout the St. Croix County Parks syst…

Season 4 of the Get Out And Try Podcast starts now! It's good to be back and even better to have a guest host for this interview with Dennis Merkel and Ryan Haugland from St. Croix County Parks. Big Thanks to Ken Coenen from Raider Streaming and KC Films Pro for letting me test out his fancy audio equipment for this interview. Join us as we talk to…

That's a wrap on Season 3! Stay tuned for Season 4 - starting on January 12, 2022! Want to see upcoming events in the St. Croix Valley? Visit Getoutandtry.com often to stay up-to-date on all of the events and happenings in the St. Croix Valley. Are you a St. Croix Valley business that is offering events? Let's get them listed on our calendar - ther…

This is Part 2 of the interview with Susan Haugh - Program Director at Belwin Conservancy. We talk about the Bison, Do's and Donts of Belwing Conservancy, and we even get into a little bit of Susan's background. At Belwin, we spark passion for wild places. Through immersive community programs and environmental education, we inspire and engage peopl…

Listen to Susan Haugh - Program Director at Belwin Conservancy talk about where, what and even who is Belwin Conservancy. This organization and the beautiful property that the public can access for free is truly a hidden gem in the St. Croix Valley. Be sure to mark your calendar for their upcoming Winter Solstice Bonfire on December 20th, 2021. Sta…

Happy December! The winter weather kind of snuck up on us this week. We’re entering into that time of year where people tend to go into hibernation mode. I think back to when I was younger - I was outside all winter long. My body was used to it - I stayed active outdoors and the winter seemed to fly by. As I’ve gotten older, the cold feels a little…

SANTA! In this unexpected sit-down, Katie has a chance to ask Santa a few questions about how he is spending his holiday season. CLICK HERE to learn more about Miracle at Big Rock. Want to see upcoming events in the St. Croix Valley? Visit Getoutandtry.com often to stay up-to-date on all of the events and happenings in the St. Croix Valley. Are you…

Part 2 - Listen to Singer/Songwriter Samantha Grimes talk about signing with Return Records/The Orchard (a Sony Music studio), her first music video, and upcoming new music. She also talks about where you can catch her upcoming shows. CLICK HERE to learn more about Singer/Songwriter Samantha Grimes. Want to see upcoming events in the St. Croix Vall…

Part 1 - Listen to Singer/Songwriter Samantha Grimes talk about growing up with music and how it lead her into performing. She lovingly calls this phase of her career "Baby Sam". She talks about her first guitar and how a non-traditional playing style (left-handed and upside-down) has lead to her unique sound. After a performing hiatus, a local mus…