The Menom Podcast

Sometimes we do not have a guest due to scheduling conflicts. So, this episodes is a ramble episode with your hosts. We discuss all the new happenings downtown, fun things to do throughout the county, Bigfoot (because we always love Bigfoot) and how Becca looks identical to a current "Survivor 46" contestant. We will be back next episode with a great guest! Thank you for all the support.

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Co-Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

Elizabeth Fischer has books pouring out of her finger tips. Since 2018, she has authored nine stories in her Eliza Series and has no plans to stop. Fischer explains her journey and process of writing these stories, her interest in elementals and the relationship he had with her partner that has led her down this path at this stage in her life. We also discuss her involvement with Chippewa Valley Learning in Retirement (CVLR).

Series summary: Delve into Eliza’s world that spans dimensions. Discover the interaction of magic, technology, and energy. Meet fascinating characters. Follow Eliza’s adventures while she learns. Find out how she handles the challenges she encounters as her wizarding skills unfold. Will she fulfill her quest?  Entertaining and invigorating for all ages. Co-Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

Sorry for the late upload, we had technical difficulties but we will be back on schedule for future episodes. The wait was worth it as Chancellor Frank returns to the podcast after being one of our very first guests. The first time Frank was on the show, we spoke all about COVID as she had only started her new job 7 days prior to the shut down. Now unmasked and ready to go, Frank shares her thoughts on the growing physical expansions on campus, the largest donation the college has ever received, the success of their sports program and so much more.

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Co-hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

Do you farm? Do you live in town? Do you manage residential, commercial, or public property? Do you enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, or canoeing? Do you think the economic and environmental health of this beautiful region is important? If the answer is "yes" to these questions, you should attend the Red Cedar Watershed Conference on Thursday, March 14, 2024.

We are joined by Tina Lee who will break down the conference and what attendees can expect. Lee gives details on what a watershed is and how we as a community can improve our local waterways.

To learn more about the conference:

https://www.uwstout.edu/outreach-engagement/community-connections/red-cedar-watershed-conference

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Co-Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

We love new businesses downtown, especially ones started by well established owners. Jennifer Rentmeester has been providing floral arrangements and gorgeous decor to those in the Chippewa Valley for many years. Rentmeester is onto a new adventure, the opening of The Gilded Faun Floral & Gift Boutique. We learn about what led her to opening a brick and morter business, her passions in life and what goods she sells that others in Menomonie do not. Jennifer is a sweet and caring person with a true passion to make Menomonie a better place.

Talented people are spread throughout the community and Erik Evensen is one of the premiere artistic talents we have the pleasure to know. Evensen's artwork can be seen on shirts, books, board games and more throughout Dunn County. He is a man of many talents who goes into great detail of his love for giving his art to the community, teaching the younger generations and participating in many Menomonie Theater Guild productions. Evensen is a delight of a person on our delightful podcast.

Please give us a "Like" on Facebook or a "Follow" on Instagram.

Co-Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

Jon Christiansen (Zymurgy) and Ryan Verdon (nonic) are head brewers, entrepreneurs and best buds. They both join live at the Mabel Tainter Spirit room to discuss learning the business together, opening their breweries a couple months apart and Jon gives us a 100 year old recipe for how to make a beer with a chicken. This is a fun time, so sit back and crack open a cold one.

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Co-hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

Brought to you LIVE in front of an audience from The Mabel Tainter Spirit Room on November 8th, Becca and Dustyn chat about Menomonie history. Well, not really, because guests Andrew Mercil (Mabel Tainter Board President) and Melissa Kneeland (Dunn County Historical Society Executive Director) steal that show while taking the way back machine. Topics include The Mabel Tainter Theater, why Menomonie wants a KFC, did Menomonie have a rail car on Main Street?, Wilson Place Mansion and much more!

Please give us a "like" on Facebook and a "follow" on Instagram.

Co-hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

Amber is a lady about town, always doing something to help better the community. Here, she explains organic coffee sharing/selling through her job at Farmer to Farmer as well as discussing Menomonie as a whole and her role on the Menomonie School Board. Talk about a fun little chat, this is why we began this podcast!

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Co-Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

Jeff Frawley and Marie Rassmussen are back chatting all things Estilo Salon. Marie was on the podcast over two years ago discussing all the great things Estilo was doing in Menomonie and Eau Claire. Now, two years later she has accomplished many of her goals from that episode and so much more. Jeff was also on an episode discussing Downtown Menomonie, but this time he is backing his wife and discussing some of the cool things they have coming up, including a new barbershop opening in late 2024. We are happy to have them both back on the podcast!

Co-Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

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Jodi Kiffmeyer is bringing stories odd and spooky stories of the Chippewa Valley to life on this episode of the Menom Podcast. Becca and I love a anything spooky so we figured this would be the best way to jump into the Halloween season. We do not want to scare you, so just listen to the episode and enjoy.

Kiffmeyer is the Co-Host of the Chippewa Valley Museum podcast on the Eau Claire Hometown Media feed, check them out.

Co-Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

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We are back after a short absence. Ryland Erdman has been a City Council Representative for Ward 10 for almost a decade. Erdman is on the podcast to share incites of what it is like to participate in local government, discuss the 'real' issues City Council faces and his favorite "yes" votes while being on Council. Remember, get out and vote in your local elections and reach out to your local government to get the answers you seek.

LIVE SHOW RECORDING RESCHEDULED to November 8th, 2023 - 7:00pm at The Mabel Tainter Spirit Room.

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In 2018, Kevin Bygd was elected Dunn County Sheriff and has held the title since. Bygd, a Boyceville native joins the podcast to discuss what it was like running for the position, the joyous people in the county and some of the main aspects of the Sheriff's Department. Did you know that a majority of his job is now checking emails? He is one of us!

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Co-Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

Sponsored by: The Mabel Tainter

Mike's Art & Design Supply, located on the corner of Broadway and Main has been a cornerstone (pun intended) for the downtown for decades. Not only does it provide much needed items for the college students, but is also for the general audience. What is the reason behind the success? Well, it is the man behind the counter, Mike Tarr. Tarr is a genuine guy who just wants to provide for the community and help make Menomonie a great place. We were excited for him to drop by the podcast and share his story.

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Co-Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

Sarah Freeman joins us to discuss all things mall business and just how she has generated such a successful following. Freeman works tirelessly to bring home grown flowers and plants into her store and even bringing in ethically produced roses. Her story is one of success, given the recent opening of her new store in Eau Claire. Her positive attitude and outlook on life is a real treat for everyone who comes in contact with her, including our listeners.

Please "like" The Menom Podcast on Facebook and "follow" on Instagram.

Co-Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

Since opening the new location in Menomonie, Westy has been keeping busy spreading the good name of Markquart Motors around Menomonie. Westy is involved with many local groups throughout the area and is really becoming someone who is seeking to make Menomonie a better place. We also chat about the vehicle market, the best new features and the best way to buy your next car (with a couple insider tips). Westy is fun to chat with, we hope our listeners enjoy it!

Co-hosts: Becca Schoenbord & Dustyn Dubuque

Known for its one of a kind pieces and terrific building, Triangle Art & Antiques has been a staple of the downtown for over a decade. Joan Navarre, UW-Stout professor, purchased the property and opened her store for all the community to enjoy. He selection is extremely eclectic, just like her personality. Join us for a great journey with a great person who represents the community.

Co-hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

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Jeremiah Gerdin has been invested in Menomonie for only a few years, but in this short time he has become a prominent property in downtown. Purchasing multiple larger properties on Main Street, Gerdin aims to bring a young professional vibrancy to the downtown. He is forward thinking and is encouraging others to be the best landlords they can be to their retail spaces, commercial spaces and for the community as a whole.

Co-hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

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Teamwork makes the dreamwork, Josh & Ashley Blaeser join The Menom Podcast to talk all thing about owning a growing a family farm. Farmers Market favorites, they discuss why they like the market so much, what it is like growing a farm in such a short amount of time and how much the quality of their products mean to them. This farm is their passion and their love, you can hear it in their voices.

Check out Blaeser Farms at https://www.facebook.com/blaeserfarms and find them at the Farmers Market every Wednesday and Saturday.

Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque.

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It is EPISODE FIFTY and we are thrilled to be joined by the funniest man from Menomonie, Tim Harmston. Tim's mother still lives in Menomonie so we begin the conversation with all the shenanigans of running a local garage sale and dive into his career as a stand up comedian. This is a must listen! Tim Harmston started doing comedy in 2002 at the Mall of America, easily one of the most impressive malls in the Upper Midwest. In 2003, Tim won Acme Comedy Company’s Funniest Person in the Twin Cities competition, something he will be sure to tell people when he's an old man in a bar. Tim has worked in some of the best clubs and theaters from Los Angeles to New York City. He has made TV appearances on Late Show with David Letterman, Comedy Central, and NBC’s Last Comic Standing. Tim's comedy has been described as “absurd," “sharp,” “hilarious," and “other.” Check out his tour dates at TimHarmston.com

Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque.

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Tom Sampson (Machine Shed) joins the show to explain there is way more to him than just muscles. A guy who used Crossfit to take control of his life after a stint in jail, Sampson is a celebratory story of a small business owner who is giving back to the community in more ways than you can imagine. This conversation is more than flipping tires, it is about his life journey to help those around him who are struggling. This is a must listen.

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Hosts: Becca Schoenborn and Dustyn Dubuque

It is our first episode of season 3 and we are joined by interim director, Rick Remington, of Landmark Conservancy to discuss many geologic wonders of the area. Enjoy and in depth discussion on The Devil's Punchbowl, Menomonie parks and some of Rick's favorite places he has been involved in in Northwestern Wisconsin. Landmark is a non-profit conservation organization serving 20 counties in western and northwestern Wisconsin.  We work primarily with private landowners who wish to conserve their land in perpetuity.  Conservancy staff evaluates and select potential projects based on notable conservation values.  We also work with local municipalities, state, and federal entities to create public preserves and trails for all to enjoy.  Our primary tools for land protection are conservation easements and land acquisition. Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque Learn more about our podcast at themenompod.com.

KT Gallagher, Health Officer - Director, joined the podcast to chat about all the great things the Dunn County Health Department can do for you and your family. Gallagher also speaks on what it was like to be in this position during the pandemic and gives your hosts fun surprise gifts on the air. For more information, head to https://www.co.dunn.wi.us/healthdepartment. Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque Learn more about our podcast at themenompod.com.

In Episode 1, listeners got to know a little bit about us, Dustyn and Becca.  Since then, a lot has changed in our lives so we decided to do a dive into who we are and what we like to do.  Off microphone, we riff a lot, which is why we wanted to start a podcast celebrating this great community.  Enjoy a bit of discussion on some of our passion projects, what we do for fun and some rambling.

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By the time you end this episode, you will ask, how does Ashley do everything she does while raising three children? Ashley Asher is the Executive Director of Girls on the Run Chippewa Valley, Mabel Tainter board member, event planner, volunteers and admirably ran for Mayor of Menomonie during the prior election cycle.  We know listeners will have fun hearing Ashley's journey to become one of the prominent public figures in Menomonie, her energy is infectious in the Chippewa Valley.  

Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque.  Please like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram.

No small business is more synoymous or loved in the town of Menomonie than Teds Pizza.  For over 50 years, Jim and his family have been slinging pizzas for patrons from around the area.  Known for their thin crust, square sliced, hand made pizzas, Jim takes us on a journey of his past on how his family immigrated from Greece and wound up in Menomonie.  Sit back and listen to great stories, why they have chosen Menomonie as their home, what it is like running a family business and what is the best pizza Jim has ever eaten?!  Please "like" us on Facebook and "follow" us on Instagram at The Menom Podcast.

Podcast hosts: Becca Shoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque

What is it like to purchase a small bookstore in Downtown Menomonie in 2023?  Well, this question will be answered by owner, Ann Vogl, after recently purchasing Bookends on Main and creating Dragon Tale Books.  We learn about how this venture came to be, what changes she is bringing to the store and what Menomonie needs an independent book seller.  Ann, Dustyn and Becca also give book recommendations because, why not?  Please give us a like on Facebook and a follow on Instagram.  Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque.

Tim Nelson has become a staple of the Young Professional community in Menomonie over the past five years.  Tim fills us in on the current housing market, tips and tricks to purchasing real estate and why living in this area has such appeal. Please give us a like on Facebook and a follow on Instagram.  Hosts: Becca Schoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque.

Sifia Jevne is a renaissance woman in the Menomonie area.  By day, she is our Dunn County Treasurer while on weekends (occasionally) you can finder her with the Menomonie Theater Guild as a Board Member and performer.  Sifia dives into tax season and what to be on the lookout for while transitioning into the greatness that is the Theater Guild and what they bring to this community.  Hosts: Becca Shoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque.  Like us on Facebook, Follow us in Instagram and rate us on Spotify.

Celebrating their four year anniversary in January 2023, Brewery nonic owner Ryan Verdon joins us to discuss opening a brewery, saving a history train depot building and why beer in Menomonie brings people together.  As time went on, a partnership was formed.  Chef Stacy began serving hungry customers at Brewery nonic during the pandemic, this led to such popularity that she is serving multiple times a week out of her very own Brewery nonic food trailer!  Her recipes are unique and bring in a crowd, great beer + great food, what could be better?  Hosts: Becca Shoenborn & Dustyn Dubuque.  Like us on Facebook, Follow us in Instagram and rate us on Spotify.

Patina Vintage opened in Downtown Menomonie after the Bounce Back grant was initiated by the state of Wisconsin. This grant allowed many small businesses to open in vacant store fronts after the pandemic.  Kayla Blue, owner of Patina Vintage, used this grant to open a wonderful refurbished furniture store.  We chat with her about her eye for vintage items, her love for small business and her passion for making something that is old, feel new.  We also chat about the best kinds of pie, because, why not?!  Co-Hosts: Dustyn Dubuque & Becca Schoenborn.  Please give us a "like" and "follow" on both Facebook and Instagram

Avid listeners know, Co-Host Becca Schoenborn loves food, so we had to have the owner of one of our favorite eateries in Menomonie, Log Jam Bar & Eatery.  Kristin Schenck joins us to discuss the wonders of owning a restaurant, her love for the community, the difficulties of the pandemic and why she loves Menomonie.  Who knows, she may open something else in the are in the future.  Co-Hosts: Dustyn Dubuque & Becca Schoenborn.  Please give us a "like" and "follow" on both Facebook and Instagram

We are so excited to be joined by Micah (owner of Studio MLM) and Maysa (owners of BarbaLynn Vintage), both in downtown Menomonie and yes, they are a father daughter combo!  Learn about what exactly Studio MLM is and how Micah built such a successful business.  Maysa explains her love of vintage clothing and what it is like having an entrepreneur father and how that guided her future.  This is a fun episode!  Hosts: Dustyn Dubuque & Becca Schoenborn.  Please like and follow The Menom Podcast on Facebook and Instagram.

It is election season, so we welcome Andrew Mercil, Dunn County Clerk, to discuss the importance of voting in your local election.  Mercil discusses all the ways to vote, who is on the ballot and how important your local poll workers are to the success of an election.  Be sure to get out and vote on November 8th. Hosts: Dustyn Dubuque and Becca Schoenborn.  Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at The Menom Podcast.

This week on The Menom Podcast, we discuss our re-branding and the future of the podcast.  Becca and Dustyn are so excited to continue to bring you great guests and a fun podcast to those in the area.  Tammy Simon joins them to answer the questions only she can.  What is tourism? What do we promote? Who is Menomonie? and what is going on in the city?  We could not have asked for a better guest for our freshly branded pod.  Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at The Menom Podcast. 

This week on Downtown Menom we chat with Downtown Menomonie Board Member and Distilled game creator, Dave Beck.  Distilled is an upcoming table top game release all about crafting spirits.  The game was so popular on Kickstarter that it made the front page of the website, now Beck has expanded the game into dozens of languages and is set to ship across the world.  Beck has a vast knowledge of whiskey and more.  Check out this amazing success story.  Hosts: Becca Schoenborn and Dustyn Dubuque. Learn more about Paverson Games on Facebook.

This week on Downtown Menom we welcome our first returning guest, Wade Lambrigtsen of Vintage Sign Shop.  Wade is an artist, small business owner and muralist.  Known as the "sign guy" in Menomonie, Wade tells us about his talents of creating historic signs, creating signs for Leinenkugel's and being a Walldogs muralist.  Give Vintage Sign Shop a "like" on Facebook.  Hosts: Becca Schoenborn and Dustyn Dubuque.

This week on Downtown Menom we're talking to Emilie Menz, local musician and the new owner of La Dee Dah. We talk about what makes Menomonie special, all the updates she has made to the store since buying the business, and plenty about music and summer fun. 

Find Lah Dee Dah on Facebook at facebook.com/Ladeedahgiftshop/ 

Hosts: Becca Schoenborn and Dustyn Dubuque 

Learn more about Downtown Menomonie at downtownmenomonie.com