Rural Unrecognized

Flagstaff County

“Rural, Unrecognized is a podcast in which we showcase the inspiring stories of small business owners from the Flagstaff Region and beyond. We dive deep into the journeys of these entrepreneurs who have turned their dreams into a reality, and hear about the struggles, successes, and lessons learned along the way.Each episode, we will feature a different small business owner and discuss their unique experiences in starting and running their business. From brick-and-mortar shops to online stores, we'll cover a variety of industries and share valuable insights and advice for anyone looking to start or grow their own business.Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or just interested in learning more about the small business community, "Rural, Unrecognized" is the podcast for you. Tune in and get inspired by the amazing stories of these passionate and dedicated individuals who are making a difference in their communities and beyond.”

  1. The Busy Bees Early Childhood Learning Story

    07/17/2025

    The Busy Bees Early Childhood Learning Story

    Send us a text Joanne McMahon has been a pillar in early childhood education in Flagstaff County for over 30 years, but when the pandemic hit, she tried something new: she brought her enthusiasm, experience, and spark to the screen. What started as a way to connect during COVID became Busy Bees Early Childhood Learning, an online program connecting families through playful, developmentally rich learning sessions for preschoolers, and their parents. In this episode, Joanne shares how she built Busy Bees from the ground up with the support of Flagstaff County’s Entrepreneur Empowerment and Mastermind programs, overcoming business fears like pricing and structure while staying rooted in her true passion: helping kids thrive through play. She explains the deep value of play-based learning, the science behind songs and nursery rhymes, and the magic of watching a child light up when “Joanne said…” becomes part of their everyday vocabulary. Her vision? To bring Busy Bees across Canada, from farming communities in Alberta to living rooms in Newfoundland, and to help families everywhere feel connected, supported, and ready for kindergarten. Joanne’s warmth is contagious, her sessions are packed with meaning, and her mission is clear: bloom where you’re planted, and help kids grow—one song, story, and pair of scissors at a time. To learn more about Busy Bees Childhood Learning Website: www.busybeeslearning.ca Instagram: Busy Bees Learning Facebook: Busy Bees Facebook To learn more about Flagstaff County visit www.flagstaff.ab.ca To learn more about the host, Amanda Wager  Amanda Wagner This episode was produced and edited by JCE Films

    34 min
  2. The JD Barrett Woodworking Story

    03/19/2025

    The JD Barrett Woodworking Story

    Send us a text In this episode of Rural Unrecognized, we meet Tracey and John, the owners of JD Barrett Woodworking, a custom woodworking business that has found success in both urban and rural Alberta. Originally from the UK, John started his career as a joiner, specializing in doors, windows, and staircases before running his own renovation business. Seeking new opportunities and a better lifestyle, he and Tracy made the leap to Canada, where they built a thriving woodworking business known for quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. What sets JD Barrett Woodworking apart is their ability to create custom, high-end pieces while maintaining a strong commitment to their clients. Their reputation has been built almost entirely through word-of-mouth referrals rather than traditional marketing, proving that exceptional work speaks for itself. They have worked on stunning home renovations, intricate cabinetry, and even custom furniture, bringing a blend of old-world craftsmanship and modern design to their projects. One of the biggest shifts in their journey was choosing to move from Airdrie to the quiet, scenic community of Alliance located in the Flagstaff Region. While they still travel to Calgary for work, they have found immense benefits in rural living. John and Tracy describe the peace and balance that come with stepping away from the fast-paced demands of city life. In Alliance, they have the freedom to enjoy their property, take breaks in the middle of the day, and truly appreciate the beauty of their surroundings. The sense of community is another major highlight—people are welcoming, supportive, and always looking out for one another. For those considering a move to a smaller community, John and Tracy’s story is a testament to the opportunities and lifestyle benefits that come with it. Their passion for craftsmanship, combined with the charm and tranquility of rural Alberta, makes their journey one worth sharing. To learn more about J.D. Barrett Woodworking Website: www.jd-barrett.com Instagram: JD Barrett Woodwork Inc Email: info@jd-barrett.com To learn more about Flagstaff County visit www.flagstaff.ab.ca To learn more about the host, Amanda Wager  Amanda Wagner This episode was produced and edited by JCE Films

    38 min

About

“Rural, Unrecognized is a podcast in which we showcase the inspiring stories of small business owners from the Flagstaff Region and beyond. We dive deep into the journeys of these entrepreneurs who have turned their dreams into a reality, and hear about the struggles, successes, and lessons learned along the way.Each episode, we will feature a different small business owner and discuss their unique experiences in starting and running their business. From brick-and-mortar shops to online stores, we'll cover a variety of industries and share valuable insights and advice for anyone looking to start or grow their own business.Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or just interested in learning more about the small business community, "Rural, Unrecognized" is the podcast for you. Tune in and get inspired by the amazing stories of these passionate and dedicated individuals who are making a difference in their communities and beyond.”