In this heartwarming episode of Nostalgia Street, hosts Vince and Jeff sit down with Kristy Laue, the creative director at Lawrence and Schiller, to delve into the stories that shaped her childhood and career. From her upbringing in the small town of Jamestown, North Dakota, to her high school pranks and the quirks of growing up on a farm, Kristy’s tales paint a picture of a life filled with unique experiences and cherished memories.

Kristy grew up in Jamestown, a town of about 14,000 people, just five hours from Sioux Falls. Raised on a farm, Kristy describes her childhood as untethered, with the freedom to explore and the joy of being close to nature. She fondly recalls her days spent with minimal adult supervision, which often led to imaginative and sometimes mischievous adventures. The farm life also included a stint with bison farming, a nod to North Dakota’s agricultural diversity and her father's entrepreneurial spirit.

Kristy shares insights into her family dynamics, detailing the roles each sibling played. As the middle child, she was the achiever, striving for attention through good deeds. Her older brother, now an engineer, was the pragmatic one, while her older sister was the athlete, known for her outgoing nature. The youngest brother, the classic baby of the family, often got away with the most. These relationships shaped Kristy's formative years, teaching her the values of hard work, cooperation, and occasionally, sibling rivalry.

Despite the strong presence of '90s country music in her household, thanks to her parents, Kristy gravitated more toward pop music. Boy bands and radio hits of the era left a lasting impact on her musical tastes, though she maintains an appreciation for the country classics that defined her childhood summers.

High school in Jamestown was a blend of academic achievement and memorable pranks. Kristy recalls the infamous senior prank, “Operation Snuff the Buff,” where her class draped a sheet over the town's giant buffalo statue, Dakota Thunder, declaring their class pride. This act of rebellion, visible from across the valley, cemented their place in local lore.

The conversation transitions to a more personal reflection, as the guest shares memories from Jamestown. The local teen hangout, whimsically named "The Bunker," served as the venue for a memorable school dance on Y2K night. Despite the widespread fear, the night ended without incident, adding a nostalgic charm to the guest's recollection.

From there, the podcast explores more personal stories, including the guest's experiences as a band and choir kid. They humorously recount the intense summer field drills and the unexpected chores at International Music Camp, highlighting the blend of hard work and fun that defined those days. This segment is peppered with amusing anecdotes, such as flavoring Zima drinks with Jolly Ranchers and the unending supply of Surge and Tab.

Towards the end, the conversation becomes more introspective. Kristy shares a significant life lesson learned through her experiences: "done is better than perfect." This mantra, developed from a lifelong battle with perfectionism, resonates deeply. It's a reminder that striving for perfection can often impede progress and that doing your best in the moment is sometimes all that matters.

As the episode wraps up, Kristy highlights the influence of music in her current life. Though not involved in formal music activities, she enjoys singing to her kids and appreciates the musical environment fostered by their drummer husband. The episode concludes on a heartwarming note, with the guest reflecting on their musically inclined extended family and the joy of shared musical traditions.

Connect with Kristy:

LinkedIn

Learn more about Lawnrence & Schiller:

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Learn more about 4Front Studios and connect with us on social media!

Website

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

YouTube

114 S Main Ave Unit 220, Sioux Falls, SD 57104

In the latest episode of Nostalgia Street, host Jeff chats with Mike Limmer, a relationship marketing coach with a fascinating backstory. Mike shares memories of growing up in South Dakota during the 80s and 90s, offering listeners a nostalgic journey through rural life, school, and his love for heavy metal music.

Mike's upbringing on a farm in South Dakota shaped much of who he is today. He recalls the work ethic instilled by his father, who managed both a construction company and a farm. The small-town atmosphere of Chester, where Mike graduated high school with just 19 classmates, fostered a strong sense of community that he still cherishes.

A highlight of the conversation is Mike's admiration for historical figures of resilience and leadership. When asked who he would send a telegram to in history, Mike chose Ernest Shackleton, the famed Antarctic explorer. Mike is intrigued by Shackleton’s story of survival and leadership during an expedition disaster in the early 1900s, and he draws parallels to other figures like POWs Admiral Stockdale and John McCain, who also demonstrated exceptional leadership under extreme conditions.

Mike’s teenage years were marked by a rebellious streak, manifesting in his love for heavy metal bands like Motley Crue and Guns N' Roses. Despite growing up in the countryside, he gravitated towards the edgy and controversial music scene of the 80s, much to the likely dismay of his parents.

Mike shares stories from his youth such as his experience of flipping his dad’s truck on a frosty night and the antics of growing up in a small town where hanging out at the local bar was a common pastime.

As Mike transitioned from high school to college, he faced the challenge of adjusting from a close-knit community to the larger environment of the University of South Dakota. Despite the initial struggle, including a shaky start academically, Mike found his path through perseverance and the support of new friends.

Reflecting on influential teachers from his past, Mike realized the significant impact they had on his life. This reflection motivated him to shift his major to education midway through his junior year of college, extending his college career but setting him on the path to becoming a teacher.

Mike shared that his first teaching job was as a first-grade teacher in Beersford, a role he describes as the hardest job he's ever had. Despite the challenges, he cherished the experience and went on to teach fifth and sixth grades, earning a master's degree along the way.

Mike eventually moved into a sales position, where he applied his passion for relationships to the business world. As a relationship marketing coach, he emphasizes the importance of giving rather than taking, fostering genuine connections, and creating memorable experiences for clients. He shared a story about personalizing coffee mugs for a sales presentation, which led to stronger, more meaningful interactions with potential clients.

Mike advocates for intentional listening and personalized gestures to build relationships. He uses customized cards to celebrate milestones and lift spirits, demonstrating that even small, thoughtful actions can have a significant impact.

Mike Limmer's journey from an uncertain college student to a passionate educator and relationship marketing coach highlights the importance of self-discovery, reflection, and the power of genuine human connections. His story serves as an inspiration for those navigating their career paths and seeking to make a meaningful impact in their professional and personal lives.

Connect with Mike Limmer

LinkedIn
Facebook
Website

Learn more about 4Front Studios and connect with us on social media!

Website

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

YouTube

114 S Main Ave Unit 220, Sioux Falls, SD 57104

In the latest episode of Nostalgia Street, Jeff interviews Rana DeBoer, delving into the stories that have shaped her life. The conversation kicks off with a fun question about assembling a supergroup from lead singers of different bands, leading to a discussion about their favorite musicians and reflections on aging rock stars.

Jeff and Rana's banter takes a personal turn as they explore Rana's upbringing on an acreage in Northwest Iowa, where she developed a love for running and a deep appreciation for nature. Despite being an only child, Rana embraced her surroundings, finding joy in outdoor activities and sports like volleyball, which ultimately laid the groundwork for her future endeavors.

Transitioning to college at SDSU, Rana reflects on the challenges of leaving home and entering the real world. She candidly discusses the lack of preparation provided by academic institutions for the complexities of adulthood, sparking a thoughtful conversation about the disconnect between education and real-life experiences.

Throughout the episode, Jeff and Rana's dynamic energy and genuine curiosity shine through, inviting listeners on a journey of introspection and nostalgia. The conversation then takes a turn to the evolution of mentorship and transitions in life, particularly from high school to college and beyond. Jeff and Rana share personal experiences and reflections on navigating these transitions, highlighting the changing landscape and opportunities for growth.

They discuss the importance of mentorship in guiding individuals through these transitions, noting the significant role it plays in providing support and direction. Reflecting on their own experiences, they recognize the challenges they faced in navigating unfamiliar terrain and the impact it had on their personal development.

The conversation then shifts to the role of businesses and education systems in facilitating smoother transitions from school to the workplace. They emphasize the importance of alignment and cooperation between these entities to ensure a seamless transition for students entering the workforce.

Drawing from personal experiences, they highlight the differences in their own experiences transitioning to college and adulthood, noting the lack of guidance and support they received compared to the resources available to today's youth. They emphasize the need for better alignment between education and employment sectors to create a more supportive environment for students.

The discussion touches on various aspects of leadership and personal development, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and reflection. Rana encourages listeners to embrace challenges and strive for self-improvement, drawing inspiration from personal role models and experiences.

Overall, the segment provides valuable insights into the importance of mentorship, personal growth, and adaptation in navigating life's transitions. Through candid reflections and anecdotes, the speakers offer listeners a glimpse into their own journeys and the lessons learned along the way.

Connect with Rana

LinkedIn

Facebook

Learn more about Volt

LinkedIn

Facebook

Website

Learn more about 4Front Studios and connect with us on social media!

Website

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

YouTube

114 S Main Ave Unit 220, Sioux Falls, SD 57104

Welcome back to another exciting episode of Nostalgia Street, where hosts Vince and Jeff take you on a journey down memory lane with a special guest. In this episode, they're joined by Andrea Carstensen from Minnwest Bank, and the conversation is nothing short of entertaining.

As always, the hosts kick off the episode with a unique question, inspired by the upcoming Olympics. They challenge Andrea to invent a new musical event for the Olympics, leading to a hilarious discussion about marching harps and the logistics of competing with them. The banter between the hosts and Andrea sets a lighthearted tone for the episode, inviting listeners to join in on the fun.

Andrea shares anecdotes from her childhood, including her adventures in Fairmont, Minnesota, where she grew up. From trampoline mishaps to camping traditions, Andrea paints a vivid picture of her upbringing, filled with outdoor activities and family bonding.

The conversation takes unexpected turns, touching on topics like board games, college life, and even Andrea's brief stint considering a career as a mortician.

One highlight of the episode is Andrea's passion for playing the harp, a talent she discovered in sixth grade. Her story of receiving a harp as a gift from her grandparents and her dedication to learning the instrument is heartwarming. She describes the harp as a beautiful centerpiece in her living room that brings calmness. Despite her love for playing background music during Christmas, she admits to feeling pressure when performing at weddings, preferring the ease of playing during the holiday season.

Transitioning to her career journey, she discusses her transition from the healthcare sector to the nonprofit world, where she found fulfillment in fundraising and community engagement. She reflects on the impact of her role as a business development officer at Minnwest Bank, emphasizing her commitment to making a difference in both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors.

The conversation highlights her active involvement in the community through organizations such as the United Way, South Dakota Bankers Association, and various church activities. She emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community and finding fulfillment in serving others.

Andrea concludes the podcast with reflections on her upbringing and the lessons she still carries with her today. She emphasizes the importance of putting oneself out there, highlighting how taking risks and initiating conversations can lead to unexpected opportunities and connections. Drawing from her experiences with fundraisers and youth group interactions, Andrea encourages listeners to embrace the potential for positive outcomes, even in the face of rejection or failure.

Connect with Andrea and learn more about Minnwest Bank

LinkedIn

Facebook

Instagram

‌

Learn More About Minnwest Bank

LinkedIn

Facebook

Website

Learn more about 4Front Studios and connect with us on social media!

Website

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

YouTube

114 S Main Ave Unit 220, Sioux Falls, SD 57104

In the latest episode of Nostalgia Street, hosts Vince and Jeff sit down with special guest Brienne Maner, President of Startup Sioux Falls, for a trip down memory lane. The conversation delves into various aspects of Brienne's past, from her childhood antics to her favorite music and school experiences.

One highlight of the episode is Brienne's passion for game shows, particularly "Press Your Luck." She shares her enthusiasm for the show's revival with Elizabeth Banks as the host and describes the emotional investment viewers feel in the contestants' success.

As the conversation meanders through Brienne's upbringing in Sioux Falls and her mischievous teenage years, listeners get a glimpse into her playful personality and fond memories. From prank calls to nostalgic music preferences, Brienne's journey through the '80s and '90s resonates with many who grew up during that time.

We shared memories from high school days, including a favorite teacher and school subjects Brienne excelled in, like English. Her struggles with math led her to meet her future husband in a data analysis class.

The conversation shifts to post-high school experiences, with Brienne recounting her college years and early career, including a stint at Sesame Street Live and later working in marketing and PR in Minneapolis before returning to Sioux Falls.

As the conversation progresses, the hosts segue into discussing Startup Sioux Falls, an organization that supports entrepreneurs and innovation in the local area. Brienne shared valuable insights into the startup landscape, emphasizing the need for agility and innovation, especially in the early stages of business. Drawing parallels between the startup environment and the dynamism of a startup itself, she highlighted the importance of continuous ideation and adaptation.

The discussion then shifted towards the significance of fostering a vibrant ecosystem for the greater business community. Brienne eloquently expressed how even individuals who venture into other sectors can benefit from the entrepreneurial mindset and skill set, making valuable contributions to their respective fields.

The dialogue also touched upon common mistakes made by entrepreneurs, such as overlooking the importance of understanding their target market and business fundamentals. Brienne emphasized the need for a solid business plan and a clear vision for the future to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship successfully.

As the podcast progressed, Brienne shared inspiring stories of individuals who persevered through adversity and emerged stronger, highlighting the resilience and determination of entrepreneurs. She underscored the importance of providing support and resources to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially in sectors like childcare, where challenges abound.

The conversation concluded with a poignant reflection on the power of kindness and inclusivity in shaping not only entrepreneurial endeavors but also personal growth. Brienne shared her journey towards empathy and understanding, acknowledging past mistakes and striving to create a more inclusive and supportive community.

Connect With Brienne Maner

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Learn More About Startup Sioux Falls

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

–-

Learn more about 4Front Studios and connect with us on social media!

Website

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

YouTube

114 S Main Ave Unit 220, Sioux Falls, SD 57104