In The Know In The 920

The spaces we use every day deserve thoughtful design. Kelly & Nick are joined this week by Jennifer Allen of Gerhard’s Kitchen, Bath & Lighting Store to explore how great design can transform the way we live. From kitchens and bathrooms to the latest innovations in home technology, Jennifer shares how her team helps homeowners, builders, and designers create spaces that are both functional and beautiful.They discuss everything from the home selection process and modern design trends to the value of investing in the rooms you use most. Jennifer also shares her own career journey from retail management to joining a fifth-generation family business that's been serving Wisconsin homeowners since 1987.Whether you're building a new home, planning a renovation, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode is full of ideas to help you create spaces you'll love for years to come. Check it out!

It’s more than a marathon, it’s a community tradition. Fiona stepping in for Kelly & Nick are joined this week by Julie Johnson of the Fox Cities Marathon to talk about the incredible impact the event has made over the last 35 years. From inspiring stories at the finish line to the dedicated volunteers who make the entire weekend possible, Julie shares why this race has become so much more than just miles on a course.They dive into the marathon’s mission of giving back, including over $1.3 million donated to local nonprofits and community organizations. From legacy runners who have completed every race to first-time participants chasing a personal goal, every runner has a story and every mile supports a greater purpose.Whether you're a runner, volunteer, or community supporter, this episode highlights the people, passion, and purpose that make the Fox Cities Marathon one of the most meaningful events in Northeast Wisconsin. Check it out!

Sometimes the biggest risk is betting on yourself. Kelly & Nick are joined this week by Mason Ross of Ross Real Estate Media to talk about his journey from competitive gaming and content creation to building a thriving real estate media business in Northeast Wisconsin.Mason shares how his experiences with YouTube, live streaming, customer service, marketing, and real estate all played a role in shaping his career. What started as a side hustle gradually evolved into a full-time business, fueled by referrals, mentorship, and a commitment to continuous growth. He opens up about the investments he's made in himself, the lessons learned along the way, and the momentum that's transformed the last several months of his business.If you've ever considered taking a leap into entrepreneurship or turning a passion into a career, this episode is packed with insight, motivation, and real-world lessons. Check it out!

Creativity has the power to bring people together. Kelly & Nick are joined this week by Isiah Driessen and Elyse-Krista Mische of The Cedars Project to talk about their mission of creating a unique community space where artists, musicians, and creatives can connect, collaborate, and share their talents.What started with the restoration of a historic Little Chute property has grown into a vibrant hub featuring live music, art, gardens, and gatherings designed to foster connection and inspire creativity. Isiah and Elyse-Krista share the story behind The Cedars Project, the vision for its future, and why creating spaces that support community and self-expression matters now more than ever.From the rich history of the property to the growing creative movement taking shape there, this episode is all about building something meaningful and bringing people together through art, music, and shared experiences. Check it out!

AI is changing the way businesses operate, and Connor Rehn is helping make that future a reality. Kelly & Nick are joined this week by Connor of Sunnyverse to talk about his journey from writing song lyrics and experimenting with ChatGPT to building custom AI and automation solutions for businesses.Connor shares how a simple curiosity about AI turned into a passion for creating tools that save businesses time, improve customer experiences, and streamline everyday operations. From AI-powered phone assistants and appointment reminders to custom software built around a company's unique needs, this episode explores the real-world impact of technology and where it's headed next.Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or just curious about the future of AI, this conversation is packed with insight, innovation, and practical applications. Check it out!

Technology can make or break a business. Kelly & Nick are joined this week by Alex Novak of Lakeland Care Plus to talk about the growing importance of IT support, cybersecurity, and technology solutions for small businesses. From secure email systems and cloud backups to website support, AI training, and Google optimization, Alex shares how his team helps businesses stay protected and efficient in an ever-changing digital world.They also dive into the reality that many small business owners end up wearing the “IT hat” themselves and why having the right support in place can save major headaches down the road. If you’ve ever wondered how businesses keep their systems secure and running smoothly, this episode is packed with valuable insight. Check it out!

The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in the Fox Cities! Kelly & Nick are joined this week by Dale & Diane of Bleacher Media LLC to talk about the journey behind launching Fox Cities Sports Magazine. From years of experience in graphic design and business ownership to taking a leap of faith into publishing, they share the ups, downs, and sleepless nights that come with building something from the ground up.They dive into how community connections helped launch the magazine, why supporting local athletes and student photographers matters, and how their passion for storytelling continues to fuel the business. This episode is all about creativity, risk-taking, and building something meaningful for the community. Check it out!

Food is more than just what’s on your plate. Kelly is joined this week by Jeremiah McDuffie of the Oshkosh Food Co-op to talk about the real impact of a community-owned grocery store. From improving access in a local food desert to supporting Wisconsin producers, Jeremiah shares how the co-op is making a difference far beyond the aisles.They dive into the co-op model, new member perks, and initiatives like Food for All that help make groceries more affordable for those who need it most. As they approach five years in business, this episode highlights the power of community, purpose-driven work, and creating access where it matters most. Check it out!

Navigating the mortgage world isn’t for the faint of heart. Kelly & Nick are joined this week by Amy Jo Tetzner of Barrett Financial Group to talk about her journey from marketing and real estate into becoming a trusted mortgage expert. From the challenges of getting licensed to closing over 120 deals during the Covid boom, Amy Jo shares the highs, the pressure, and the lessons learned along the way.She breaks down the difference between mortgage brokers and retail lenders, how flexibility can make or save a deal, and why she’s shifted her business to focus on balance, boundaries, and working with the right clients. If you want a real look behind the scenes of lending and what it takes to succeed in today’s market, this one delivers. Check it out!

From one horse to a full-blown dream. Kelly & Nick are joined this week by Katie Brucks of Lucky Stables to talk about how a passion turned into a career she truly loves. Starting with lessons at a young age and building from the ground up, Katie shares how teaching to afford her own horse quickly grew into a thriving business through hard work and determination.From buying her first horse at 21 to expanding into a full facility offering lessons, therapy, and competitive teams, her journey is all about following what lights you up and figuring it out along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to turn passion into purpose, this one’s for you. Check it out!

Turning loss into something powerful. Kelly & Nick are joined by Curtis and Trish Vallier of Battlecorn Global to share the story behind their mission, born from their daughter’s love for giving and carried on in her honor. What started in 2020 has grown into a global movement, sending over 1,400 care packages to children facing unimaginable battles.From the impact of their warrior pillows to the incredible community that helps make it all possible, this episode is a heartfelt look at purpose, resilience, and giving back. They also dive into their upcoming Gold Tie Gala on August 8th, a night designed to bring people together, raise funds, and support pediatric patients and their families in meaningful ways.This one hits deep and shows what it really means to turn pain into purpose. Check it out!

Built on tradition and driven by purpose! Kelly & Nick are joined this week by Josh Fuller of Packerland Home Improvement to talk about what it takes to run a family business that’s been around for over 50 years. From its beginnings in siding to evolving into a go-to for windows and doors, Josh shares how they’ve grown, adapted to trends, and stayed true to what works. With a small but mighty team and a hands-on approach from start to finish, this episode is all about craftsmanship, consistency, and doing things the right way. Check it out!

We’ve got something sweet this week! Kelly & Nick are joined by Samantha Johnson of SKD Sugar High to talk about her journey from getting started just a few years ago to growing a buzzworthy cake pop business through local events and farmers markets. From experimenting with flavors to building a brand and chasing the dream of a brick-and-mortar shop, Samantha shares what it really looks like to learn and grow as an entrepreneur. Check it out!

The market is heating up! Kelly & Nick are back this week diving into what’s really happening in today’s real estate market, from median home prices with RANW to the spring and summer surge keeping their team busy. They also mix in some local buzz, trending topics, and what’s happening around the 920 this weekend. It’s a little real estate, a little lifestyle, and a whole lot of real conversation. Check it out!

We’ve got tequila and vision! Kelly & Nick are joined this week by Bekki Garcia, owner of Calavera’s Fine Fusions, to talk about her journey from a simple conversation during Covid to building a unique experience in Appleton. From shifting concepts, staying ahead of trends, and creating a space for the 30+ crowd, Bekki shares how she works smarter not harder and proves the doubters wrong. Check it out!

We've got cupcakes! Kelly & Nick are joined this week by Amanda Cupcake to talk about her journey into the art of crafting delicious and unique cupcakes. Check it out!

You're sure to be invested in this one! We sat down with Daysi Aprahamian from our team to talk about property investing in the Fox Cities. She shared her first-hand experiences and tips for new investors!

Early spring?! The real estate market is already hot! Check out these new listings and some insights into the real estate market! Plus, we share some memories of our grandparents' house, which is now on the market!

On this week's episode, we're joined by Kimberly from Urban Market in Neenah to learn about their family business and how it's adding to Downtown Neenah's roster of awesome local shops!

We are joined by Lawrence University's Trevor Lord and Dr. Elizabeth Becker as they teach us about all of Lawrence's exciting summer programs coming this year! There are so many amazing opportunities to learn & discover new passions!

Kelly & Nick welcomed Wellness 360 founder Sydney Hummell onto the podcast to talk about her company's culture, success, and recent expansion!!

This week, Nick & Fiona spoke with local author Rebecca M. Zornow. We learned all about her works, her writing process, and her newest book Landsome Ruins, which releases in February!

Let's chat about a new way to get your artistic fix! Fiona & Nick met with Jessica Andriessen from the French House of Clay to learn about how her business is helping residents of the 920 expand their cultural horizons with fun, hands-on artwork!

We met with Alyssa Durham, co-owner of Birdie & Co, to chat about the company's business ventures, including The Nest, The Coop, and so much more! Come learn about these unique and fun Fox Cities businesses!

It's Season 3! We spoke with Chip Wood & Vaya Lauren Jones from Rebuilding Together Fox Valley about their upcoming Razzle event and some exciting updates about the future of RTFV!

This week, Ashley Pahl stopped by to teach us about Form The Family - an organization that helps foster & adoptive families better support their children. Learn how you can reFORM, inFORM, and transFORM to improve our community!

Join us as we chat with Bri Gonnering from the Heart of the Valley Chamber of Commerce to learn all about what the Chamber offers, especially their programs for small and medium sized businesses! We also give a quick update on the 2026 real estate market outlook.

We met with Cole Stoffel, founder of Cole's Crusade, and spoke about his mission to help Wisconsin families battle critical illnesses and inspire others to make a difference.

This week, Trish & Curtis Vallier of Battlecorn Global joined us to talk about their mission to defeat pediatric cancer and help brighten the day of kids & families affected by this terrible disease.Support their cause here:https://battlecornglobal.org/donate

We're cleaning up our act! This week, Kelly & Nick chatted with Annie King, owner & founder of Queen of Cleaning. Come hear her how her cleaning business went from humble beginnings to a thriving company through hustle and elbow grease!

We’re joined by Cindy Schamber from Community Horizons to dive into the world of Support Brokers - what they do, how they help, and the impact they make in empowering individuals through self-directed care!

Meet Daysi Aprahamian of the Kelly Davies Homes Team: bilingual Realtor, mom, veteran, and marketing pro! Daysi tells us about her journey into real estate and what she's learned along the way!

This week, Kelly and Fiona are joined by Djuanna Kath from Community Benefit Tree, a nonprofit that’s been helping families for over 21 years! Learn how they provide financial relief for families facing medical debt, and how you can get involved. Last year alone, they supported more than 350 families in need. Tune in to hear their incredible impact and how you can make a difference in your own community.

Our podcast space got a glow-up! Kellie from Branching Out & Company joined us to talk about all things flowers and helped liven up our studio with some of their gorgeous creations! Don't forget to check out the weekend events in the 920!

Let's talk about the great outdoors! Naturalist Brad Garrity from 1000 Islands Environmental Center in Kaukauna came to teach us about 1000 Islands, their animal friends, and their mission to promote education and conservation in Northeast Wisconsin!

Brush up on your knowledge of the 920 as we chat with Vanessa and Alex, co-owners of Board And Brush Creative Studio in Appleton & Green Bay. Learn about the cool crafts you can make and schedule a fun outing!

This week's episode is totally paw-some! We sat down with Leah from The Pawffee Shop Cat Cafe to learn how they're serving drinks and helping local rescue cats. We'll teach you how you can hang out with some feline friends! As always, don't forget to check out the weekend events in the 920!!

This week we're joined by Nicole Hurd of Auvia Health to learn how they're using technology to improve mental health and maternity care! Also featuring a spooky surprise guest! Don’t forget to check out the weekend events in the 920

We're joined this week by Cindy Kopeny of Fairway Mortgage to learn homebuying secrets you need to know! We address some common myths and mistakes related to home loans and you won't want to miss it!

Kelly & Nick chat with Amber and Corey (and 2 special guest stars!) from Our Pack Animal Rescue Inc to share how their team is making a difference for dogs in our community. Learn about their fostering efforts, success stories, and how you can lend a hand to pets in need.Learn more about OPARI here: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/16LDAKkih2/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Green Bay Realtor Alex Young joined us to share his journey into the world of real estate and what it’s been like building his career in today’s market. We also dive into the current market conditions in Northeast Wisconsin and what buyers and sellers should know right now.

Nick and Kelly talked with Oliver and Casie from the Building For Kids about the children's museum's impact on kids in the Fox Cities, as well as what goes into designing and maintaining their awesome exhibits. They also taught us about some of their upcoming events and how the museum stays easily accessible to area families! Don’t forget to check out the weekend events in the 920!

On this episode, Fiona and Nick talk about what buyers can expect in today’s market, give a quick update on how their summer has been going, and highlight some of their latest listings. Stick around until the end for a list of weekend events you won’t want to miss!

Join Kelly & Nick as they chat with Amanda Keezer, the owner of Amanda’s Glamping! Learn how she turned a love for cozy camping into a full-blown camper rental and delivery service that brings the glamping experience right to your doorstep. Don’t miss the weekend events in the 920!

In this episode, Kelly and Nick sit down with Carissa and Tiffany from Lake Edge Learning Center in Neenah to explore the world of nature-based learning. They share how outdoor environments encourage curiosity, resilience, and creativity in young children—and why “risky play” is not only safe but essential for healthy development. Plus, we cover some fun events happening around the 920 this weekend!

We’re stepping outside the 920 for this one! This week we expanded our reach for a very special guest - Miss Wisconsin 2025, Willow Newell! Nick and Kelly sat down with Willow to hear about her recent crowning moment, the journey that led her there, and what this new role means to her. She shared her plans for the year ahead, including the initiatives she's passionate about and how she hopes to make a difference across the state. Willow tells us how she is preparing to take the Miss America stage and proudly represent Wisconsin on a national level!

Nick and Kelly chat with Seth Merrill, the Director of Business Development from the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, to talk all things baseball and branding. From creative events like Frozen Pizza Night to the team’s success in promotions and community engagement, Seth shares how the Rattlers are a standout in minor league baseball. Plus, hear how Timber Rattlers players make the climb to the MLB. Don't forget to check out the weekend events in the 920!

In this episode, Kelly and Nick sit down with Jen and Lara from Harbor House to talk about the incredible work they’re doing to support individuals and families in the community. They share insights into the shelter and crisis services they provide, meaningful volunteer opportunities, and their ongoing mission to create a safer, more supportive community. Jen and Lara also give us a preview of upcoming events and some inspiring statistics that highlight the powerful impact Harbor House makes each year.

This week on the podcast, Kelly and Nick chat with Jessica Klingberg from the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce about Immersion Fox Cities- a new initiative designed to help newcomers connect with the community through hands-on experiences and local engagement. They also dive into other programs the Chamber offers and the important role it plays in supporting the Fox Cities region. Plus, stick around for a roundup of weekend events in the 920!

This week’s guest is Karen Nagel, the owner of Karen’s Krafty Paws! Nick and Fiona chat with her about how her love of crocheting turned into a small business filled with creativity—from cozy crafts to a DIY bead bar and craft parties. Plus, check out what’s going on this weekend around the 920!