We Are Grant County

Toad Talk Media
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We Are Grant County is a storytelling podcast that shines a light on the people, places, and passions that make Grant County, Kentucky, a truly special place to call home. Hosted by Michelle Neidigh—an introvert and local photographer—this show is more than just conversations. It’s Michelle’s journey of stepping outside her comfort zone to meet the people who are shaping the heart of her community. As she breaks through her barriers, you’ll be introduced to business owners, educators, artists, athletes, and everyday heroes who make Grant County thrive. With heartfelt conversations and authentic voices, this podcast captures the spirit of small-town life, celebrates local achievements, and builds connections that remind us: We’re all part of something bigger. Whether you’re from here, moved here, or love stories that matter—We Are Grant County is for you.

  1. 6D AGO

    The Story Behind Casa Martini: Grit, Family, and the American Dream

    The podcast episode delves into the journey of Martin, the owner of Casa Martini, from his childhood in Mexico to his role as a restaurant owner in Grant County. It explores the impact of his name, the purpose of Casa Martini, and the challenges he faced in his early jobs and struggles. The episode also highlights the role of servers at Casa Martini and the impact of Martin's humble and generous nature. The conversation delves into the strong community and family bonds, the business legacy, and the path to citizenship. It also explores community engagement, giving back, and the reflection and gratitude towards the journey and support received. Takeaways Martin's journey from Mexico to Grant County is a story of resilience and determination.The purpose of Casa Martini is to create a welcoming and familial environment for its patrons. Strong community and family bondsCommunity engagement and giving back Chapters 00:00 Introducing We Are Grant County05:09 The Impact of Martin's Name10:35 The Role of Servers at Casa Martini16:26 Martin's Journey to America22:22 Community and Family Bonds28:40 Community Engagement and Giving Back36:53 Reflection and Gratitude

    44 min

  2. MAR 20

    We Are Grant County: Little League Strong

    In this episode of the We Are Grant County Podcast, hosts Michelle Neidigh and Katie Jimenez sit down with Chris Jump, board member of Grant County Little League and Youth League, to talk about the impact youth sports have on our community. Chris shares his journey from coaching his own kids to helping lead one of the county’s largest youth organizations—now serving nearly 380 players across multiple divisions. The conversation dives into what it really takes to run the league, from organizing opening day events and managing equipment to coordinating volunteers and supporting families behind the scenes. They also discuss the exciting growth of the program, including the addition of a youth league that allows teams to compete beyond county lines, giving kids more opportunities to play and develop. More than anything, this episode highlights what Little League is truly about—building confidence, teaching teamwork, creating friendships, and giving every child a place to belong. Chris also shares details about this year’s opening day celebration and a heartfelt fundraiser supporting a young player battling cancer. Whether you’re a parent, volunteer, or just someone who loves this community, this conversation is a reminder that it’s about more than the game—it’s about the kids, the memories, and the people who show up to make it all happen.

    43 min

  3. MAR 6

    Life After Mom & Dad: Navigating Disability Care in Grant County

    In this episode of We Are Grant County, hosts Michelle Neidigh and Katie Jimenez speak with Samantha Harrison of Momentum Family Strategies about the challenges families face when caring for adults with developmental disabilities, especially as caregiving responsibilities shift. The conversation explores the realities of navigating resources in rural communities and the importance of building strong local support systems.

    35 min

  4. 12/12/2025

    Understanding Behavioral Health Services: A Deep Dive into One Quest Health

    summary In this episode of We Are Grant County, hosts Michelle and Katie speak with Hannah from One Quest Health (formerly CHNK Behavioral Health). They discuss the organization's services, including individual and family therapy, intensive outpatient programs, and collaboration with local schools. Hannah shares insights on the continuum of care, insurance acceptance, and the referral process, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and community support. The conversation highlights the organization's expansion plans and commitment to serving the mental health needs of Grant County residents. takeaways One Quest Health was formerly known as CHNK Behavioral Health.The organization offers a variety of mental health services for all ages.They provide telehealth options for convenience and accessibility.Insurance options include Medicaid and private insurance.Payment plans are available to assist families in need.Referrals can come from parents, schools, or self-referrals.The organization is trauma-informed and addresses various mental health issues.They have a waitlist for individual therapy but not for other services.Expansion plans include reaching more schools and communities.Community support is crucial for the success of mental health services. titles Understanding One Quest Health's MissionNavigating Mental Health Services in Grant CountySound Bites "Our services are trauma-informed.""We have payment plans to help families.""We're here to help serve you." Chapters 00:00Introduction to One Quest Health 00:47Overview of CHNK Behavioral Health 03:44Services Offered by CHNK 07:37Continuum of Care and Accessibility 11:47Insurance and Financial Support 14:32Referral Process and Collaboration with Schools 17:29Expansion Plans and Community Impact 19:32Final Thoughts and Community Support

    22 min

  5. 11/28/2025

    Empowering the Next Generation: The Impact of 4-H Programs in Grant County

    We Are Grant County Hosted by Michelle Neidigh and Katie Jimenez Guest: Mason Malin Produced by: Toad Talk Media In the heart of Grant County, a transformative movement is taking place through the 4-H programs, which have been nurturing young leaders for over a century. This podcast episode dives deep into how 4-H is shaping the lives of youth, offering them invaluable opportunities for growth, leadership, and community involvement. Grant County Extenstion Office Williamstown, KY (859) 824-3355 grant.ext@uky.edu https://grant.mgcafe.uky.edu/4h-youth-development Main Content: 4-H gives youth hands-on learning in everything from agriculture to tech, helping them explore interests and build real-world skills. Mason Malin, Grant County’s 4-H agent, shared how programs like shooting sports opened unexpected college doors for him. Volunteers and community leaders fuel the program’s success—“Without them, we wouldn’t have a program,” Mason said. 4-H faces challenges competing with other activities, often remaining a “best-kept secret,” but the team continues adjusting schedules and activities to fit busy families. From photography classes to leadership opportunities, the impact is clear: 4-H builds confidence, creativity, and lifelong memories for Grant County youth. Conclusion: The 4-H programs in Grant County are more than just extracurricular activities; they are crucial platforms for developing the next generation of leaders. As Mason articulated, "We want to provide opportunities for youth to find their spark." With the continued support of volunteers and the community, 4-H will undoubtedly foster growth, resilience, and passion in young individuals for many years to come. Key Takeaways: - 4-H empowers youth through hands-on learning and leadership opportunities. - The success of 4-H relies heavily on the commitment of volunteers and community leaders. - Adapting to the needs and schedules of youth is essential for engagement. - The program offers unique pathways to personal growth and success. Tags: 4-H, youth development, Grant County, hands-on learning, youth programs, personal growth, agriculture education, Toad Talk Media

    54 min
  6. The Impact of the Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association

    11/14/2025

    The Impact of the Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association

    Today, we're diving into the heart of the Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association, a vibrant volunteer organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in our communities through education, leadership, and service. Join me, Michelle, and my co-host Katie, as we sit down with Diana and Connie from the Grant County Homemakers. We're unpacking what it truly means to be a homemaker in today's world, and the exciting initiatives that are shaping the future of this organization. From community engagement projects to educational opportunities, we'll explore how anyone—yes, even you—can get involved and benefit from the wealth of resources available. So grab a cup of coffee and let's get into it! Takeaways: The Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association plays a vital role in enhancing community life through education and service.Diana and Connie shared how their involvement with the Homemakers Association has been life-changing, particularly in community engagement.The organization offers various programs and events that cater to different interests, including cooking, crafting, and volunteer activities.Membership is open to everyone, regardless of gender, and there are opportunities to participate in various clubs and initiatives.The upcoming community market and special events, like the Shopper Showcase, highlight local crafts and promote community spirit.Diana’s personal story of surviving ovarian cancer emphasizes the importance of the association's health screenings and its impact on women's health. Companies mentioned in this episode: Kentucky Extension Homemakers AssociationKEHAGrant County Homemakers AssociationDry Ridge HomemakersFlat Creek Elliston ClubAfter Hours ClubLunch and Learn ClubHomemaker CouncilBoone CountyChamber BreakfastNothing Bundt CakesUniversity of Kentucky Mentioned in this episode: Toad Talk Media Toad Talk Media is a storytelling-driven media company based in Grant County, Kentucky. We create podcasts, videos, social content, and a quarterly magazine that spotlight local voices, businesses, and community pride. As the production team behind We Are Grant County, we believe in authentic conversations, meaningful connections, and creative content that celebrates small-town life. Whether you're a listener, viewer, or future guest, you're invited to be part of the story.

    52 min
  7. Serving Those Who Served: Inside the American Legion Post with Stormey and Darryl Brown

    10/31/2025

    Serving Those Who Served: Inside the American Legion Post with Stormey and Darryl Brown

    Stormey and Darryl Brown from the Williamstown American Legion join us to share the rich history and vital role of the Legion in supporting local veterans. They highlight the various ways the Legion raises funds and resources to give back to those who have served our country. Both Stormey, as the post commander, and Darryl, the post adjutant, emphasize the importance of community involvement and encourage veterans, as well as the public, to participate in events and initiatives. From hosting bingo nights to collecting donations for local charities, their passion for helping veterans is evident. This episode not only sheds light on the Legion's activities but also invites everyone to join in and support those who have dedicated their lives to serving others. Engaging with Stormy and Darryl Brown from the Williamstown American Legion Post 0137 showcased the vital role this organization plays in supporting veterans and the community. Stormy, the commander, shared her extensive history with the Legion, which began in 1989, and highlighted her dedication to helping veterans and their families. Together with her husband, Darryl, the post adjutant, they emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming environment for all veterans, regardless of their discharge status. They discussed the significance of membership and how it fosters a sense of belonging among veterans, encouraging honorably discharged individuals to join and actively participate in the Legion's activities. During our conversation, we explored the various ways the Legion raises funds to support its initiatives. The Browns detailed their ongoing bingo nights, which not only serve as a source of income but also as a community gathering event that fosters friendships and connections. They shared heartwarming stories of how the Legion has provided essential support to local veterans, including medical equipment and assistance with VA benefits. The emotional depth of their stories illustrated the profound impact the Legion has on individuals' lives, reinforcing the idea that it is more than just a social club—it is a lifeline for many. As the discussion progressed, the need for community involvement became increasingly apparent. Stormy and Darryl emphasized that the Legion relies heavily on the support of local citizens, encouraging everyone to participate in events, volunteer their time, or make donations. They expressed a desire to dispel any misconceptions about the Legion being solely a place for drinking and socializing, instead presenting it as a family-friendly environment focused on service and support. Their genuine passion for their work and the community shone through, leaving a lasting impression that the American Legion is a place where veterans can find support, camaraderie, and a sense of purpose. The episode concluded with a heartfelt invitation for everyone to get involved, whether through volunteering or simply attending events, highlighting the collective responsibility we all share in supporting our veterans. Takeaways: The American Legion is a vital support network for veterans, fostering camaraderie and providing assistance among those who have served.Stormy Brown, the commander, emphasizes the importance of giving back to veterans and the community.Darryl Brown highlighted the various services the Legion offers, like loaning out medical equipment and helping veterans navigate VA benefits.The Legion hosts events like bingo nights to fundraise and engage the community in a family-friendly atmosphere.Membership at the Legion is open to all honorably discharged veterans, providing a space for veterans to connect and support one another.Community involvement is crucial for the Legion’s sustainability, and they encourage locals to volunteer or participate in events. Mentioned in this...

    43 min
  8. Riding with Rhythm's Shirley Dubay Shares Her Horsemanship Journey

    10/22/2025

    Riding with Rhythm's Shirley Dubay Shares Her Horsemanship Journey

    Shirley Dubay from Riding with Rhythm joins us to share her journey in horsemanship and the community impact of her riding school. From her early days in vocational school to her certification at Meredith Manor, Shirley’s background is rich with experiences—from working with thoroughbreds on the track to becoming a head riding instructor in Colorado. With her decades of experience, Shirley teaches riders of all ages, focusing on building confidence and skills through engaging lessons. In our conversation, we explored various teaching methods, including games she uses to help students learn while they are in the saddle. She highlights the importance of understanding horse care and the commitment that comes with horse ownership, dispelling common misconceptions along the way. She discusses her unique facility in Pendleton County, where she offers a range of programs, including private and semi-private lessons, as well as badge work for community organizations like the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. If you're interested in horsemanship or simply want to learn more about the world of horses, this episode is a perfect blend of education, inspiration, and heartfelt stories from someone who truly lives and breathes her passion for riding and teaching. Takeaways: Shirley Dubay shares with us her vast experience and training with horsesShirley offers a variety of lessons and community programs, including scouting badge work and hands-on classes for kids.Shirley stresses the importance of understanding horse care in addition to learning how to ride.She discusses some common misconceptions about horse ownership and gives a warning to parents who may not know the major commitment of time and money involved with making a purchase of a horse.Shirley's teaching style emphasizes patience and connection, and her use of games to encourage learning through fun. Links referenced in this episode: ridingwithrhythm.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Riding with RhythmNo Blink PicturesToad Talk MediaWe Are Grant County

    35 min
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About

We Are Grant County is a storytelling podcast that shines a light on the people, places, and passions that make Grant County, Kentucky, a truly special place to call home. Hosted by Michelle Neidigh—an introvert and local photographer—this show is more than just conversations. It’s Michelle’s journey of stepping outside her comfort zone to meet the people who are shaping the heart of her community. As she breaks through her barriers, you’ll be introduced to business owners, educators, artists, athletes, and everyday heroes who make Grant County thrive. With heartfelt conversations and authentic voices, this podcast captures the spirit of small-town life, celebrates local achievements, and builds connections that remind us: We’re all part of something bigger. Whether you’re from here, moved here, or love stories that matter—We Are Grant County is for you.

Information

  • Creator
    Toad Talk Media
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Toad Talk Media
  • Show Website
    We Are Grant County