Let's Talk--with Michele Hardman

What do you get when you put two long-time friends and fellow cavers in a room together? You get lots of fun and interesting stories. That's just part of what you'll learn when you listen to this conversation with Gary Roberson and Gordon Smith, while visiting Cave Country owner Sherri Nail and the gang. Give it a listen.

How much do you know about the Indiana State Festivals Association Scholarship Pageant? Listen to my conversation with the 2023 Queen, Claire Bishop, and hear about her experience and thoughts about the pageant itself, and some of the fun things she's gotten to do while being an ambassador for the association covering the entire state of Indiana. Learn more about Claire, some of her hobbies, her years in 4-H, and her plans for her future. If you've been considering entering the next ISFA Pageant--you should do it.

In this episode of Out Of The Blue from Cave Country Canoes, we talk with Karen Swartz, President of the Harrison County Historical Society. Karen is a very enthusiastic person who has a true passion for preserving the rich history of the area. The Historical Society received a grant from a couple sources to produce a documentary and a book on the history of the Blue River and the tremendous impact it's had on the economy in southern Indiana. Hear all about this project, and some of the other great things going on with the Historical Society when you listen to this podcast.

Looking for a tranquil weekend getaway out in the country? Away from traffic, crowds, technology, stress, and the everyday demands of life? Look no further than the cozy cabin at Harvest Inn South in the tiny burg of Taswell Indiana. Leann Corbin has everything here you'll need--all bed linens, towels, even some breakfast foods in the frig if you want to cook something quick and easy and not even leave the cabin all day. Enjoy your morning coffee in the swing on the front porch while you watch the sunrise and listen to all the happy birds starting their day. Sound inviting? Listen to this podcast with Leann and learn more about this amazing retreat.

Do you know what a Hellbender is? It's North America's largest salamander, and in the state of Indiana it can only be found in the Blue River....which just happens to run right past Cave Country Canoes in Milltown. In this month's podcast at Cave Country Canoes, I get to talk with Nick Burgmeier, Extension Wildlife Specialist at Purdue University, and learn more about these interesting creatures and why they're so important.

Beautiful downtown Greenfield Indiana springs into action for the annual Riley Festival, running from October 5-8, 2023 this year. Shop from roughly 450 food and craft vendors, listen to live music in different locations throughout the weekend, browse thru the exhibits on photography and the arts, and learn more about the local celebrity that the festival is named after--famed poet James Whitcomb Riley. Hear some of the exciting details in this episode as I talk with Anita Turner and Sarah Kesterson.

Cave Country Canoes is well known for their Summer concert series, and packs in quite a crowd to enjoy a wide variety of music out on the lawn. From classic to modern country, to folk, to psychedelic rock....there's a style that fits everyone here. In this podcast, your host, Michele Hardman, sits down with a couple of local musicians to talk about their music and some of the places they'll be playing this summer--including at the annual Paddle Fest right here at Cave Country Canoes.

The fact that the Blue River in southern Indiana has the highest quality rating in the state is pretty impressive in itself, but there are so many other interesting facts and features that go along with it too.  Cassie Hauswald, Director of Freshwater Programs from the Sam Shine Foundation, shared a ton of cool things with us in this podcast.  Such as--some of the breeds of fish that are only found here in the Blue River, the growing population of Hellbenders found here due to the fact of the rivers high oxygen levels, that there are roughly 23 different types of fresh water mussels that live here....and the list goes on.  Take some time to listen and learn from our conversation, and you'll likely be inspired to be a little more conscious of our local water supplies.  

Cave Country Canoes in Milltown is now a woman owned business and continues to grow and improve, adding an ice cream and coffee shop with outdoor seating for the Spring of 2023.  With 700 canoes and kayaks, 8 shuttle buses, live music and a campground, it's the perfect place to relax with nature for a weekend.  Listen to this podcast with Owner Sherri Nail and Manager Tonya Hood as they share more info about what is waiting for you here.

Looking for someplace to relax and chill out?  You need to spend some time in the quaint little river town of Madison Indiana.  The Main Street stretches for several blocks and is packed with locally owned shops and boutiques, yet it still has this laid-back, small town feel to it.  And just a couple of blocks away is the gorgeous River Walk that lets you meander at your own pace all along the tranquil Ohio River, watching the barges and boats travel up and down the water way.  Find lodging in the many B&B's, or stay at the newly opened Fairfield by Marriott Hotel right on the water.  It's actually the town's former cotton mill that's now been lovingly restored into a magnificent hotel, keeping the vintage architecture and history while adding all the modern conveniences that we all love.  

I'm on the road quite a bit, both for my writing and for some of my other work, and people are always asking me where I've been or about a particular restaurant I've posted about.  I love to explore the smaller towns and find the locally owned diners and cafes.  The unique shops, the fascinating people.  So after several suggestions from my listeners, I'm starting a travel series of podcasts for you all.  They're not too long, just a quick recap of some of the things and places I find out on the road.  In this first episode I'm taking you to the town of Rockville Indiana.  With it's brick lined streets around the town square and the awesome variety store that has a little of everything you could possibly need.  Give it a listen.  Then get out and check it out for yourself.  Enjoy!

You know how some places just make you feel at home?  The atmosphere is peaceful and relaxed.  That's how I feel at the Ramsey Hotel and Convention Center in Pigeon Forge Tennessee.  This was already a nice hotel, but they started a major renovation at the first of 2022, and I stopped back in for a visit in early May to check on the progress.  New furniture, lighting, flooring and larger refrigerators are part of the project, plus a brand new Dog Park just off the end of the building.  Listen to my latest podcast to hear all about it.  

So what all is there to do in Perry County Indiana?  And where is it?  It's in the far southern part of the state, along the Ohio River, and packed with cute boutiques, great restaurants, coffee shops, homemade ice cream, train rides, cabins to rent right along the river, history, and lots of fun events all throughout the year.  Of all of the 9 counties in the state that the massive Hoosier National Forest covers, Perry County has the most of it with over 60,000 acres of prime area to hunt, fish, hike and horseback ride.  Listen to my conversation with my friend Betty Cash, Executive Director at the Perry County Visitor's Bureau, and hear about some of the interesting things this county has to offer.  Find more at:  www.pickperry.com   

Do you really know what the Chief Deputy does at your Sheriff's Department?  I was lucky to spend some time talking with Gregg Taylor with the Lawrence County Indiana department, and heard about his 25 year career there, his 10 years as their D.A.R.E. Officer, and more.  Take a few minutes and listen to this podcast and learn more about Gregg, and how his love and passion for his job and his career have now led him to run for Sheriff on the Republican ticket.  **Note**   Gregg accidentally gave out his former email address on the podcast, so if you'd like to contact him, you can do so at:  greggtaylorforsheriff47@gmail.com.  

You have lots of options for lodging when you visit Pigeon Forge Tennessee, but not all of them have the welcoming feel of a comfy home like the Ramsey Hotel and Convention Center does.  From the two-sided fireplace and comfortable furniture in the lobby, complimentary coffee, tea, hot chocolate and cider, a nice breakfast buffet, indoor swimming pool, hot tub, outdoor firepit, bar, and more, they have everything you need, and the friendly staff will take great care of you.  Conveniently located right in the heart of town and close to all the attractions and restaurants, the Ramsey Hotel is the perfect place to come back from a fun filled day exploring the Smokeys and relax.  I had the pleasure of spending some time while I was in town and recording a podcast with the Assistant General Manager at the hotel--Don Ward.  I invite you to listen to our conversation to learn more about what all the Ramsey has to offer, including their gorgeous convention center that's attached to the hotel.  Book a stay with them the next time you're in the area and see for yourself how these folks share their warm southern hospitality.    

Often times there's a cultural stigma with things like mental health issues, domestic violence and Dementia.  People feel uneasy letting anyone know they're struggling with any of these things.  The Rural Dementia Network is making a strong effort to alleviate this by offering free information and assistance to anyone who wants it.  In this podcast conversation, you'll learn signs to recognize in folks who are dealing with this fatal disease, and how to deal with it best.  There are support groups you can attend, including caregivers who are helping others manage this situation.  Follow Dementia Friendly Lawrence County on Facebook or on their website for more information.  And I encourage you to please share this podcast with anyone you know who might benefit.  They currently serve Lawrence and Orange County southern Indiana.  

Did you know there's a beautiful 43 acre park in northern Lawrence County Indiana?  It's located on the former Avoca State Fish Hatchery property, in the small burg of Avoca, and is now being ran by Marshall Township.  Although the fish hatchery is no longer in operation, the park still remains for the public to use.  It's a very tranquil place, with large shade trees, picnic tables, shelter houses, a playground, waterfall, and nice, flat walking trails.  Listen to my conversation with Sam Bond--one of the dedicated volunteers who are all working hard to provide an enjoyable space for the community.  If you'd like to rent one of the two shelter houses or any part of the property for a special event or fundraiser, or you just want to make a donation to help keep the park maintained, we'll give out a phone number towards the end of this podcast.  They can also always use more volunteers to help with various maintenance and upkeep around the park if you'd be willing to donate some of your time.  This park is such a fabulous asset to have and I encourage you all to get out and enjoy it.

Did you know that Hoover's Candy Shop has been around in the Bedford, Indiana area since 1908?  Amazing!  After several different owners throughout the years, it's still in the family.  Jenny Purcell and Amanda Childers purchased it at the start of 2021 and have really taken off with it since then.  You may see their food truck at numerous festivals and vendor shows around southern Indiana, or you can stop by their shop between Bedford and Bloomington.  They're still cranking out long time favorites like hand-made caramels, their famous cinnamon logs, mint melt-aways, and more.  They're also giving back to the community who has been so supportive of them.  For each t-shirt you purchase from them, they donate $5 to the local Agape House non-profit organization.  Visit their website at: hooverscandyshop.com

So what's the real estate market like in the summer of 2021?  What do you need to do before you even start looking at properties?  How much work and improvements do you really need to do before you list your home for sale?  Can you get pre-qualified for a loan? And what's involved with that?  What can you do if your credit isn't where it need to be?  Hear helpful answers to all of these questions and more in my conversation with Angel Hawkins from Hawkins & Root Real Estate in Bedford, Indiana.  

Especially if you live in a more rural area, who are usually the first people to show up when you have any kind of emergency?  Your local volunteer fire department crew is always there long before an ambulance or law enforcement arrives.  They're there for us in all sorts of sickness, health problems, accidents, fires and more, and we all need to be so thankful for their dedication and sacrifice.  Think about that, and how you can help support them, either with cash donations, your time, or maybe donating items for their next fundraiser.  Listen to my conversation with Fire Chief Jason Lewis from the Marshall Township Volunteer Fire Department in Judah and you may gain a whole new appreciation for these men and women that we all depend on so much.   

Are you feeling overwhelmed with all the day-to-day responsibilities of running your business? All the payroll, financials, taxes, and more.         Carla Brock at Brock's Bookkeeping & Tax Service can help take some of that stress off of you.  In this podcast, she'll explain some of the services she offers, which also include Quickbooks consulting.  Give it a listen, then give Carla a call to see how she can help make your life much easier.

Chances are, you've heard of Young Living Essential Oils.  But did you know this company also makes a multitude of other daily used products?  Things like shampoo, body lotion, aluminum free deodorant, laundry soap, dog treats, and more.  What makes these any different or better than anything else on the market?  The fact that they're all made from the natural plants and oils that are also used to make their 100% pure essential oils.  If you're conscious about the things you put into and onto your body, and want a more healthy, natural way to combat everyday ailments, listen to my conversation with Kathy Sandefur about the Young Living and Oola companies.

There's a fun, high energy fitness studio in Bedford Indiana that you need to check out.  They offer a wide assortment of classes like PiYo (a combination of pilates and yoga), Piloxing (a combination of pilates, boxing and dance), Pound (cardio drumming with sticks), Cardio Chix, and more.  If you're out of shape or think you're too old for any of this, think again.  All classes can be modified to be done while sitting in a chair, so they can accommodate anyone who wants to do them.  The boutique is in front of the fitness studio and sells a variety of fitness clothing, Piloxing gloves, yoga mats, plus vintage t-shirts and home decor to go right along with the 80's rock music that's part of almost every class.   Find them online at bedfordfitchix.com, on Facebook, or Instagram.  The owners main goal with the studio is to make fitness fun so more people will do it and improve their overall well being.   

If you're even thinking about divorcing your spouse, do yourself a favor and schedule a consultation with Michelle Gregory.  She can coach you to be better prepared.  Chances are, there are lots of things that you haven't thought about that you need to take care of ahead of time, and she can give you all sorts of suggestions to make things go much smoother.  Maybe you're not quite ready for divorce, but a legal separation will help.  Whatever questions you may have, Michelle will be happy to offer advice.  Listen to my conversation with her to learn more.  

What's the shelf life of fudge and fresh caramels?  Find out on this podcast.  Do you love to collect cookbooks?  Get a copy of one that         Alyssa Rice published of over 100 recipes from area cooks from Owen County Indiana.  Want to support a local business that produces quality candies and also dog treats?  Hear what Tom Rice from Nate's Candy jar has to share about the ever growing company that he and his wife Alyssa have built in the small Indiana community of Gosport.  

Ladies, how serious do you take your bra?  Many of us don't give it much thought.  We just buy one that looks pretty or is on sale.  But wearing one that fits you properly can make a major difference in the way you feel throughout your day.  Take a few minutes to hear what Penny Buhr from Essential Bodyware has to share with us and it can literally change your life.  

Wabash Indiana is such a quaint little town.  With a population of around 10,000 it's not overly congested, yet has everything you could want or need.  With a luxury hotel right in the heart of town, lots of cute boutique shoppes, restaurants, bed & breakfasts, coffee shoppes, the beautifully restored Eagle Theatre, the Honeywell Center bringing in nationally known performers, and well maintained city parks to enjoy the great outdoors.  Their amazing Visitor's Center is located downtown too.  Easy to find and not only filled with brochures and literature on fun things to do and see, but also stocked with a nice assortment of local products from area merchants.  Listen to my conversation with the Creative Lead at Visit Wabash County--Katie Jones.  Her love and passion for her hometown community shine thru, and her passion for all the things it has to offer make you want to come and check it all out for yourself.

The Southern Indiana city of Jasper continues to grow, and St Benedict's Brew Works has now opened another one of their restaurants here in the new River Center, right along the peaceful Patoka River.  Hear all about the specialty craft beers they make, and stop by for some pizza, pretzel bites, ice cream, and more.  

Are you ready to stop hassling with maintaining a home?  All the yard work, snow removal in winter, paying property taxes and insurance...it's a lot to deal with.  If it's time to free up your time and simplify your life, consider downsizing and moving into Autumn Trace Senior Community in Bedford, Indiana.  Three meals every day, snacks, coffee, activities, an onsite beauty shop and more.  Hear all the details in my podcast with Executive Director Tammy Bailey.  

Did you know that it doesn't cost you any extra to book your vacations thru a travel agent?  Do you really know all the things travel insurance covers, and how inexpensive it is?  Do you have an autistic family member that has a rough time traveling?  Learn answers to these questions and other helpful tips in my conversation with Brenda Revere, owner of C2C Escapes Travel in Bedford, Indiana.   

All of us need a positive outlet to release stress;  Something that takes us to a happy place where we can forget our troubles for a while.  For many of us, different forms of art are the perfect solution.  Have you heard of acrylic paint pouring?  You're about to.  Charity Minton shares some of the products and techniques that she uses, and after you listen to our conversation and feel her enthusiasm, you'll be wanting to give paint pouring a try.  

Hear about this month's featured wine, recipes available to pair with it, a little history of the company, and more, in this interview with Valerie Ball, one of the four owners of Hunter's Ridge Winery in Salem, Indiana.  

Do you look at your personal health and wellness as an extravagance that you shouldn't waste money and time on, or do you see it as preventative maintenance and an investment in yourself?  You're actually doing yourself--and everyone in your circle--a favor by keeping yourself in a healthy balance.  Listen to my conversation with Charity Minton, from Mindful Methods Wellness, and learn some fascinating things about Neora products, essential oils, Reiki, and more.

Do you know what an Osprey looks like?  Bet you've never seen an eagle nest up close to fully realize how big they are.  You can learn all sorts of cool things about wildlife at the Patoka Lake Nature Center and by exploring the rest of the park.  Hear about their archery classes and more when I sat down with Dana Reckelhoff for a chat.  

It was such a pleasure to chat with Linda Armes, owner of The Olive Leaf, and learn more about olive oils, balsamic vinegars, and more.  I learned that a dark balsamic actually has a sweet taste, and the white balsamics will be tart.  After sampling several with vanilla ice cream, I'm a huge fan of these products.  Listen to my interview with Linda and learn more.

How much do you know about the non-profit organization ABATE of Indiana?  Have you been wanting to take motorcycle riding classes?  Learn more about the different ways they give back to communities all across the state, and how you can get involved.  Listen to my conversation with Marc Falsetti, editor of their monthly magazine--Hoosier Motorcyclist.

I always enjoy doing what I call a "biography podcast," where we get to learn more about a person's life experiences.  In this interview I'm talking with my long time friend Joby Jerrells about his career as an attorney for the US Army, his past work in Washington DC, and some of his world travels.  

If your child has medical needs such as spinal issues, burns, or cleft palate, did you know that the Shriners organization can assist with the medical bills, and many of the clubs can even provide transportation to and from the hospitals?  Learn more in my interview with Cory Van Meter from the La-Or-Ma Shrine Club, which serves kids in Lawrence, Orange and Martin county.

Want a metal monogram, or your family's name on a sign?  What's the benefit of powder coating it?  John and Troi Stith from Force Designs will explain how they make custom metal signs, bottle openers, Christmas ornaments and more.  

Your city may be fortunate enough to have a United Way agency, but do you really know how they benefit your community?  Did you know they have grant money available to assist with various projects in your area?  Did you know that you can donate when you make purchases thru Amazon?  Find out these answers and more in my interview with Kim Burgess, the Executive Director in Bedford, Indiana.  

What is a Spark Club?  How can you become a volunteer with 4H?  What is the county fair going to look like this year in Lawrence County?  Find all these answers and more in my interview with Lesley Lodmell at Purdue Extension Lawrence County.

Did you know you can freeze maple syrup, extending it's shelf life up to 4 months?  Did you know that the flavor of maple syrup depends on the color, whether it's milder or more bold?  Learn more fascinating facts in my interview with owner Eric Lee from Stix 2 Brix.  

Our pets have to transition to life's changes just like we do.  Hear some suggestions on how to keep things peaceful in your home in this interview with Cari Pfaff, owner of Little Black Dog Training Services.

Indiana's Best is a brand new venture, showcasing and selling quality Indiana made products ranging from dog treats, bath soaps, jewelry, specialty foods, home decor and more.  

Did you know that acupuncture can be done without even using any needles?  And did you know it can help with all sorts of ailments, such as depression, high blood pressure, fibromyalgia, migraines and more?  Listen to my conversation with Dr Edwards to learn more helpful information.

We're talking with Happy Travelers owner Linda Fitzpatrick about her fun group trips all over the world.  

Find ways to relax that work specifically for you and make time for them on a regular basis.  Learn the benefits of relaxation and why you should even care about it.

I'm sharing tips and ideas to help you save some money but still be able to get out and enjoy the world around you.  Have fun!

Let me help you discover some of the gifts and talents that you may not even realize you have, and then I'll challenge and encourage you to use them to help other people--which will in turn help you to enjoy your own life more.