QC, THAT'S WHERE‪!‬ Visit Quad Cities

There's a special kind of connection that occurs when books and coffee come together, and this episode's guest, Kara Taghon from The Atlas Collective, is a true magician in that respect. With the scent of freshly brewed coffee in the air and a library of stories at our fingertips, we explore the creation of a community hub that's reinvigorating the Quad Cities. Kara reveals the life of a new business owner and how her introverted nature thrives within this extroverted venture, providing insights into the deep connections and vibrant community stitched together through shared stories and steaming cups of coffee.

As we unwrap the layers of The Atlas Collective's book club, we're invited into a microcosm of diversity and dialogue, where the joy of reading unites people from all walks of life. Our conversation ventures into the club's challenges and triumphs, from keeping pace with literary trends fueled by social media to honoring the timeless allure of the classics. Kara's journey as an introvert leading a book club paints an intimate portrait of connection and understanding, celebrating the richness of a community bonded over the pages of their favorite tales.

The episode culminates with a look at the broader picture of the Quad Cities' coffee scene, where the QC Coffee Trail casts a warm glow on the patchwork of local businesses. We hear touching stories and explore upcoming events designed to spark creativity and foster engagement within The Atlas Collective. Our gratitude for the QC increases as we reflect on the unique charm and collective joys that Kara's haven of literature and coffee brings to the heart of the Midwest.

Embark on a delightful journey with me as I sit down with Kristen Vito, the passionate assistant Director of Alumni Events and Community Engagement at St Ambrose University. During our conversation, we traverse Kristen's surprising path from exercise science to the vibrant world of community engagement, uncovering how her work is integral to nurturing the future through the SAU Wine Festival Series. 

Sip and savor the essence of the SAU Wine Fest Series' 23 years of togetherness, philanthropy, and scholarship support, all distilled into a series of events designed to captivate the heart and palate. The festival represents more than a gathering; it's a bridge connecting alumni and the local community, fostering a culture of investment in the region's growth and prosperity. Kristen and I ponder the potent blend of social enjoyment and giving back, illustrating how these events have blossomed into a cornerstone of community and educational support.

As the conversation winds down, we shed light on how you can be a part of this festive tradition and contribute to the future of promising students. Discover where to sign up, how to get involved, and learn more about the rich experiences awaiting you at the Wine Fest Series. Kristen's fervor for St Ambrose and the Quad Cities promises to leave you inspired and eager to join in the celebrations that so beautifully intertwine education, community, and the timeless joy of a fine glass of wine.

Check out www.sau.edu/winefest for more information and to register.
Keep up with St. Ambrose happenings on their social media: https://www.facebook.com/stambroseuniversity 
https://www.instagram.com/stambroseuniversity/?hl=en
https://twitter.com/stambrose

Did you know the Davenport Junior Theater is the second-oldest kids' theater in the country?  Daniel Sheridan shares with us the secrets to the theater's longevity and some updates on what's in store for the community staple.

Imagine a place where the vibrancy of young performers infuses life into the rich tapestry of arts in the Quad Cities. Daniel takes us behind the scenes, sharing how his personal evolution from a reserved child to a theater aficionado led him to shape the future stars of the stage. As we traverse the landscape of local live entertainment, you’ll see how community, history, and the sheer love of performance blend together to create a truly dynamic cultural scene.

Our conversation also peeks into the future, revealing the ambitious plans for the Junior Theater’s relocation and renovation. Daniel's heartfelt message underscores the importance of nurturing the potential within every child and invites us all to play a role in their growth. And don't miss out on the upcoming summer delights! With a host of programs and a main stage show that’s open to all, the Davenport Junior Theater continues to be a beacon for the young—and young at heart—in the arts community.

#VisitQuadCities #QCThatsWhere #JuniorTheater

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to truly belong? Ashley Gore, the VP of Marketing and PR for the Quad Cities Jaycees, joins us to unravel the tapestry of community engagement and how it's not just about the events, but the connections that blossom from them. From teaching to telecommuting, Ashley's journey to find her tribe in her 30s is a tale that resonates with anyone seeking a deeper sense of community. Her insights into the Quad Cities' open-armed approach to newcomers and the Jaycees' ethos of service paint a picture of a place where young professionals can grow and thrive.

Navigating the networking landscape can be daunting, but the Jaycees are experts at creating spaces of connection. We get an insider's look at their standout occasions like the Wedding Expo and the Wine and Chocolate Experience, which are more than just signature gatherings; they're lifelines to local nonprofits supported by the Jaycees' fundraising efforts. Ashley shares how these events are woven into the fabric of the local community, offering both social engagement and the chance to give back.

Embarking on a personal tour of the Quad Cities with someone who's rediscovered her roots, we learn about the magnetic appeal of the area's amenities, like the QC Coffee Trail – a testament to the local culture's richness. Our conversation with Ashley also reveals how the entrepreneurial spirit thrives here, with teaching skills translating into new ventures in the digital world. Looking ahead, we discuss innovative marketing strategies for community events and the importance of recognizing local leaders at the Jaycees Awards Banquet, closing with an invitation to celebrate the remarkable individuals who shape the heart of the Midwest.

When you get a golden idea - run with it. That's what Rachel Stahle and Kelsey Watson did, leading to the creation of Snap Wagon. Embark on a journey with us and discover how a mobile photo booth became the cornerstone of a thriving business. This episode unravels the tapestry of their hard-won success, detailing the metamorphosis of a simple concept into a community-connecting phenomenon and marketing powerhouse. Rachel and Kelsey's passion for local growth and their unique blend of volunteering spirit and marketing ingenuity are nothing short of inspiring.

Picture this: you're at an event, and a photo booth captures your most joyous moments. That's the experience Rachel and Kelsey have perfected with Snap Wagon, transcending traditional photography to craft unforgettable memories in a cozy environment. Our candid discussion uncovers the heart of creating a business that resonates with each smile snapped. The duo shares pearls of wisdom for budding entrepreneurs, emphasizing the harmony of shared visions and diverse strengths. Their story is a roadmap for anyone dreaming of turning their entrepreneurial aspirations into reality, complete with practical advice on leveraging valuable resources.

As we wind through the narrative of these inspirational women, we also celebrate the power of community in the world of business. Their stories attest to how engagement with local initiatives and a collaborative spirit have been pivotal for Snap Wagon's triumph. From personal tales of nonprofit involvement to strategic networking, Rachel and Kelsey exemplify what it means to intertwine professional success with meaningful community contributions. So, grab a cup of java from the QC Coffee Trail, and tune in to an episode that's rich with the aroma of entrepreneurial spirit, community collaboration, and the joy that comes from capturing life's best moments.

Find the Snap Wagon on social media
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thesnapwagonquadcities
Instagram - thesnapwagonqc
TikTok - thesnapwagonqc

Or on their website at thesnapwagonqc.com 

When Grace Boffeli decided to take her basketball talents to Northern Iowa, little did she know that her story would become an inspiration for countless young athletes in her hometown of the Quad Cities. In our latest episode, Grace, a former North Scott High School phenom and now a key player for UNI, sits down to recount her exhilarating journey. She shares how the roar of her local fans fuels her on-court prowess and reminisces about the pivotal moment she chose to become a Panther, embracing the familial bond nurtured by her coaches. Not only does Grace share her excitement for the Missouri Valley Conference tournament, but she also brings to life the adrenaline rush of playing with a "home-court" advantage during the conference tournament season.

Then, we swerve from the hardwood to the hearts of the community, highlighting how women's sports at UNI are carving out a powerful legacy. From the irresistible charm of Whitey's Ice Cream discussions to the palpable increase in game-day crowds, we showcase the growing influence of female athletes. We're also let in on game-day superstitions and the beloved college memories that will last a lifetime.  As we peek into the future, Grace reveals ambitions that extend well beyond the arena, into careers that promise to shape the minds of the next generation. Join us for these heartfelt narratives that celebrate the indelible imprint of women's athletics and the enduring spirit of the QC community pride.