The Small Towns, Big Dreams Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis
Podcast details
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Recent rankings
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Apple Podcasts
🇨🇦 Canada - entrepreneurship
08/06/2025#73🇨🇦 Canada - entrepreneurship
30/05/2025#63🇨🇦 Canada - entrepreneurship
29/05/2025#63🇨🇦 Canada - entrepreneurship
13/12/2024#98🇨🇦 Canada - entrepreneurship
12/12/2024#58🇨🇦 Canada - entrepreneurship
10/12/2024#97🇨🇦 Canada - entrepreneurship
08/12/2024#93🇨🇦 Canada - entrepreneurship
01/12/2024#93🇨🇦 Canada - entrepreneurship
14/11/2024#83🇨🇦 Canada - entrepreneurship
13/11/2024#99
Spotify
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Shared links between episodes and podcasts
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See all- https://www.laura-sinclair.com/
437 shares
- https://leahvandolder.com/
126 shares
- https://www.junglescout.com/
65 shares
RSS feed quality and score
Technical evaluation of the podcast's RSS feed quality and structure.
See allScore global : 52%
Publication history
Monthly episode publishing history over the past years.
45 - “Nobody cares, work harder” - Topp Developments with Jesse T.
Season 3 · Episode 45
mardi 12 novembre 2024 • Duration 01:05:10
I didn't know much about Jesse’s story before he reached out to be on the podcast, but I knew he had built several businesses in our town, so I didn’t hesitate to say yes. What I discovered after our conversation was that Jesse is not only incredibly knowledgeable about business and growth, but he also has an unwavering commitment to our community here in Saugeen Shores. As a new dad, he’s constantly adapting his priorities, but his dedication to supporting other small businesses, his students, and this town is deeply rooted in everything he does.
In this episode, we dive into so much: the discipline of Martial Arts, the ups and downs of running a gym, the strategies behind real estate investing, and the value of business mentors.
If you’re looking for motivation and encouragement, this episode is for you. Jesse’s insights on hard work, resilience, and adapting to challenges are inspiring, and his genuine desire to see others succeed shines through in every story he shares.
This is an episode that will leave you energized and ready to tackle your own goals - Don't miss it!
You can find Jesse:
Katie Franklin Doula Services
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Enjoy 10% Off Your Order at InstaCakeCards.com with code ‘SmallTownsBigDreams’
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Please follow Small Towns, Big Dreams on:
Or send me an email at: SmallTownsBigDreamsPodcast@Gmail.com
44 - "The world is for the brave" - Bandit Creative with Beth J.
Season 3 · Episode 43
vendredi 8 novembre 2024 • Duration 44:05
Beth, a freelance graphic designer and illustrator, is the creative force behind Bandit Creative. When I decided to refresh the podcast logo, I found Beth through Instagram and Marigold Media, and I was excited to ask if she could help. The entire process was seamless, and I was thrilled with the final result—so much so that I invited her on the podcast to discuss her business and the world of graphic design!
Since recently relocating to Wasaga Beach, Beth has been busy taking on new clients and projects, and she has no plans to slow down. We chat about the flexibility of freelancing, the supportive small-town community, her favorite projects, and much more!
You don't want to miss this one!
You can find Bandit Creative:
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Enjoy 10% Off Your Order at InstaCakeCards.com with code ‘SmallTownsBigDreams’
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Please follow Small Towns, Big Dreams on:
Or send me an email at: SmallTownsBigDreamsPodcast@Gmail.com
35 - InstaCake Cards
Season 2 · Episode 35
vendredi 7 juin 2024 • Duration 01:02:39
I'm thrilled to have my longtime friend Brianna joining us this week. Brianna and I grew up together—living just around the corner, riding the same bus, and even working side by side for years.
I've been following Brianna and her amazing company, InstaCake Cards, since the very beginning, and when I first launched this podcast, she was one of my biggest supporters.
InstaCake Cards has such an inspiring story. They landed their first big order right before March 2020 and have since embarked on an incredible journey—from starting in a garage to now operating out of a 7,000 sq ft warehouse. Their success story is wild as it involves: Netflix, Ellen DeGeneres, Dragon’s Den and more!
The best way to enjoy this podcast is with a delicious cake, obviously, and if you haven't tried an InstaCake Card yet, listen to this episode, then check them out online or at a retailer. You're going to love them!
And here's a sweet treat for our Small Town, Big Dream listeners: Brianna has generously provided a promo code for 10% off at InstaCakeCards.com. Use “SmallTownsBigDreams” (all one word). Plus, it’s also a referral code, so you’ll be supporting the podcast too!
Enjoy the episode!
You can find Instacake Cards:
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Enjoy 10% Off Your Order at InstaCakeCards.com with code ‘SmallTownsBigDreams’
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Listen to the Podcast with me on the Ridiculously Happy Pplcast
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Please follow Small Towns Big Dreams on:
Or send me an email at: SmallTownsBigDreamsPodcast@Gmail.com
34 - BMKC Canada
Season 2 · Episode 34
jeudi 30 mai 2024 • Duration 01:00:13
**Giveaway being posted May 31st on Instagram @SmallTownsBigDreamsPodcast
Shawna was a huge inspiration for this podcast, and I’m so excited that we finally got to sit down and chat! She was one of the originally planned guests, but she’s been unbelievably busy with all her many hats – Caterer, Market Manager, Chef, and Kitchen Designer (just to name a few). But we finally caught up this month, and it was worth the wait!
Shawna hails from the bustling city of Toronto but now calls Port Elgin her home, proudly dubbing herself a “small-town girl who grew up in the city.” She’s worked incredibly hard to get where she is today, and she’s got some exciting projects in the pipeline. She shares fantastic advice on starting out, taking things slow, seizing every opportunity, and growing at your own pace.
In our chat, we dive into her catering business, her amazing BBQ products, and all the local markets and events she’s involved with. Plus, she shares how much she loves small-town life and being a part of the Bruce/Grey community.
If you spot Big Mama at one of the markets this summer, be sure to tell her you heard her on the podcast! In the meantime, grab some of her mouth-watering sauce (my personal fave is the OG Owen Sound Gold, but they’re all incredible), fire up the BBQ, and get ready to be inspired!
You can find BMKC Canada here:
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Did you hear our new commercial (ft. Ollie & Carter?)
You need to try out:
Enjoy 10% Off Your Order at InstaCakeCards.com with code ‘SmallTownsBigDreams’
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Listen to the Podcast with me on the Ridiculously Happy Pplcast
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Please follow Small Towns Big Dreams on:
Or send me an email at: SmallTownsBigDreamsPodcast@Gmail.com
33 - Chef Carey McLellan
Season 2 · Episode 33
jeudi 23 mai 2024 • Duration 01:04:44
This week, I’m thrilled to chat with Chef Carey McLellan, the talented Head Chef at The Sandbar Restaurant in Southampton. After savoring a fresh, local breakfast during my staycation at the Beach Motel, I knew I had to reach out to Carey. When she agreed to be a guest, I was over the moon!
Carey is a Red Seal chef with a deep passion for local, seasonal, and sustainable food, honed through years of working with renowned local chefs, producers, suppliers and farmers. She shares her incredible journey, from growing up with limited food diversity to becoming a head chef known for her creativity and stunning dishes made with locally harvested and seasonal produce.
In our chat, Carey talks about the importance of community and collaboration, giving heartfelt shoutouts to local farmers, suppliers, and producers who play a crucial role in her kitchen. You can hear her respect and appreciation for those who help her.
We dive into everything from her ever-evolving menus to her unique adventures outside the kitchen. When she’s not cooking up a storm, Carey loves gardening, foraging for wild edibles, exploring Bruce County and collaborating with other local businesses.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that promises to leave you hungry for more! And after the episode, why not book a reservation at the Sandbar Restaurant? You might just catch both of us there!
If you are interested in collaborating with Chef Carey & The Beach Motel, contact them on their website below!
PS. I know we are a little behind on the collaborations, but the shout outs should remain, so I left them in there.
Local producers/suppliers/farmers:
Robichaud Commercial Fisheries
You can find Chef Carey McLellan at:
@ChefCareyMcLellan on Instagram
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Please consider donating to the Waples Family Terry Fox Run at:
https://run.terryfox.ca/team/waples-family
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Listen to the Podcast with me on the Ridiculously Happy Pplcast
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Please follow Small Towns Big Dreams on:
Or send me an email at: SmallTownsBigDreamsPodcast@Gmail.com
32 - Chicken House Press
Season 2 · Episode 32
jeudi 16 mai 2024 • Duration 01:06:20
Back in 2016, Alanna Rusnak stumbled upon a big problem in the book world: small-town writers, like Alanna, were having a tough time getting their stories and work out there. So, what did she do? She decided to tackle the challenge head-on and started her own little publishing company called Chicken House Press.
At first, Chicken House Press was all about getting Alanna's own book out into the world. And it worked! Her novel went on to become a Canadian bestseller, a finalist for the Kobo Emerging Writer Award, and named one of the top reader-recommended books of 2017 by CBCBooks.ca!
And Alanna didn't stop there, she turned Chicken House Press into a full-blown publishing powerhouse, helping writers from all corners of the globe share their tales with the world.
In our chat, Alanna shares everything you need to know about getting your book published. And our talk was so inspiring, she's all about motivating you to start putting those words down on paper, no matter where you're from or what kind of story you want to tell. So, if you've ever dreamed about writing something – whether it's a novel, an essay, or even just a blog post – this episode is your go-to guide for getting started.
You can find Alanna / Chicken House Press
Buy The Church in the Wildwood on your Kindle
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Please consider donating to the Waples Family Terry Fox Run at:
https://run.terryfox.ca/team/waples-family
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Listen to the Podcast with me on the Ridiculously Happy Pplcast
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Please follow Small Towns Big Dreams on:
Or send me an email at: SmallTownsBigDreamsPodcast@Gmail.com
31 - Nicole Manion
Season 2 · Episode 31
vendredi 10 mai 2024 • Duration 57:03
31 – Nicole Manion
This was such an inspiring episode and interview. I hope you love it, and take away as many positive insights as I did.
Nicole is an inspiring creator who started her first business at 21. She opened Muskoka Aesthetics Inc. by herself, and turned it into a thriving team and company. In 2019, she also started Miskoka Beauty Inc after seeing a gap in the eye and brow industry.
Nicole believes in collaboration, growth, and inspiring the next generation of creators. She even has her own podcast “Beauty Behind the Brand” – which, if you love this podcast, you will love hers!
I love this episode. Nicole is a powerhouse entrepreneur and it was an honour to interview her.
You can find more about Nicole at:
Beauty Behind the Brand Podcast
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Please consider donating to the Waples Family Terry Fox Run at:
https://run.terryfox.ca/team/waples-family
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Listen to the Podcast with me on the Ridiculously Happy Pplcast
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Please follow Small Towns Big Dreams on:
Or send me an email at: SmallTownsBigDreamsPodcast@Gmail.com
30 - The Detour Co
Season 2 · Episode 30
mercredi 1 mai 2024 • Duration 54:48
The Small Towns, Big Dreams Podcast
Hosted by Beki Waples
Rebecca gave me TWO body butters for a giveaway! See Instagram/Facebook on May 2nd for details, or forward your newsletter sign up to smalltownsbigdreamspodcast@gmail.com. Giveaway closes May 17th. Rebecca O. established the Detour Co in 2022, after searching for natural skincare products in her new home in the Muskoka, unfortunately she was unable to find what she was looking for. Recognizing this gap in the market, Rebecca took the initiative to craft a skincare brand aligned with her values of eco-conscious, and all natural, while also creating the family life she had long envisioned. Rebecca has devoted her effort and research to deliver an eco-friendly, 100% natural skincare line to Canada. Her infectious enthusiasm, ambition, and commitment to quality ensures that The Detour Co will become the preferred choice for individuals seeking a personal touch in their skincare routine.
My conversation with Rebecca left me thoroughly inspired to dream bigger than I have been. Enjoy listening.
**Throughout the podcast, I mistakenly refer to her location as "the Muskokas" several times. Rebecca does clarify that this is not the correct name. I apologize for the oversight and will use the term "Muskoka" going forward.
You can find The Detour Co:
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Please consider donating to the Waples Family Terry Fox Run at: https://run.terryfox.ca/team/waples-family
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Listen to the Podcast with me on the Ridiculously Happy Pplcast
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Please follow Small Towns Big Dreams on:
Or send me an email at: SmallTownsBigDreamsPodcast@Gmail.com
29 - Tip of the Tongue Myo
Season 2 · Episode 29
jeudi 25 avril 2024 • Duration 54:59
The Small Towns, Big Dreams Podcast
Hosted by Beki Waples
This week is a sit down with Fayth Irwin, a driven entrepreneur juggling three businesses alongside her full-time role as a dental hygienist. From spray tanning to teeth whitening and myofunctional therapy, Fayth delves into the intricate connection between oral healthyou’re your overall well-being. We discuss how she overcame personal challenges with tongue therapy and now aims to spread awareness and support others facing similar struggles. We also dive into insightful conversations on the power of small business, investing in yourself, and the importance of collaboration in the entrepreneurial world. Don’t miss this episode, and then contact Fayth to book a Spray Tan or Teeth Whitening party Asap!
You can find Fayth at:
We also discuss:
Girl Boss Solutions – Virtual Assistants
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Listen to the Podcast with me on the Ridiculously Happy Pplcast
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Please follow Small Towns Big Dreams on:
Or send me an email at: SmallTownsBigDreamsPodcast@Gmail.com
28 - Jennifer Haessler - ND & Faster Way to Fast Loss
Season 2 · Episode 28
mercredi 17 avril 2024 • Duration 01:17:22
I met Jennifer when she was speaking at a WBOSS event here in Port Elgin. Before she took the stage, we exchanged small talk, but when she began speaking, it felt like destiny intervened – that’s a bit dramatic, but I really resonated with everything she said. At the end of her talk, she mentioned she loved books, and it cemented it for me – I had to have her on the podcast.
Jennifer is a Naturopathic doctor, and a Fast Way to Fat Loss Coach. Our discussion covers a lot. We cover everything from her background, to becoming a business owner, to her work as a Naturopathic doctor, and the benefits of fasting. There is even some book talk in there too!
Tune in for insights that impact both your business and well-being. Share this episode with friends—it’s a game changer!
Learn more about Jennifer:
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Please follow Small Towns Big Dreams on:
Or send me an email at: SmallTownsBigDreamsPodcast@Gmail.com









