MyFESTUS.com Conversations

💜 📣 ☮️Kind Kami: Empowering Women Through Storytelling

💜 📣 ☮️Kind Kami: Empowering Women Through Storytelling
Summary
In this 20 minute episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara speaks with Kami Kimes about her journey and the importance of community connection, particularly among women. Kami shares her passion for creating storytelling events that she has organized to empower women in Jefferson County, emphasizing the need for support and connection in challenging times. The conversation highlights the significance of community, the details of the quarterly events, and the transformative experiences that arise from sharing stories and supporting one another.
 
Itty-Bitty Takeaways
Crafting serves as a therapeutic outlet for creativity.
Women need spaces to support and uplift each other.
Storytelling can be a powerful tool for connection.
Community events can foster meaningful relationships.
It's important to create inclusive environments for all women.
Free events can make a significant impact on attendees.
Personal stories can resonate and inspire others.
This kind of networking focuses on genuine connections, not sales.
Community support can lead to healing and growth.
Every woman has a story worth sharing.  
 
Quotable Sound Bites
"It blossomed into a storytelling event."
"Our community really loves each other."
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to MyFestus.com Conversations
01:07 Kami Kimes: A Crafty Connector
04:09 The Importance of Women Supporting Women
09:10 Creating a Storytelling Community
12:03 Details of the Quarterly Events
16:07 The Meaning of Community
 
💜Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit to create a BIG impact in your life.💜
 
✨Thank you for SHARING this to spread the word to CONNECT more women as we all SUPPORT an empowered community.✨
 
Learn more about Kami and the upcoming women’s Empowering Event (with a live link to register) on:
💜 📣 ☮️ 👇
MyFESTUS.com/Kami
As always, BIG SHOUT OUT and a THANK YOU to Ray Halbrook with Live Stream STL for his production talents!
 
Keywords
MyFestus, storytelling, women empowerment, community connection, local events, crafts, personal growth, support network, Jefferson County, Kami Kimes

🍞🧀🥜A Custom Charcuterie of Insurance Solutions

🍞🧀🥜A Custom Charcuterie of Insurance Solutions
 
Summary
In this 20 minute episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara engages with Lynnsie Kerperien from Custom Insurance to discuss the importance of tailored insurance solutions for businesses. They explore the analogy of charcuterie boards to illustrate how each business has unique needs that require customized coverage. The conversation also highlights the significance of community connections and networking in supporting local businesses. Lynnsie shares insights on the current insurance market and the value of understanding individual business needs to provide the best protection.
 
Itty-Bitty Takeaways
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to business insurance.
Understanding a business's unique needs is crucial for effective coverage.
Community connections can lead to valuable referrals and support.
Insurance should protect investments and ensure peace of mind.
Networking is essential for building relationships in the business community.
Custom Insurance allows for tailored solutions for various industries.
It's important to review and understand existing insurance policies.
The current insurance market is challenging, but options are available.
Engaging with local businesses fosters a sense of community.
Education about insurance can empower business owners to make informed decisions.
 
Quotable Sound Bites
"We are all in this together."
"Gouda is the way to go people."
"Support our local businesses."
 
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to MyFestus.com Conversations
01:07 The Art of Charcuterie and Business Insurance
05:49 Custom Insurance: Tailoring Coverage for Unique Needs
12:12 Building Community Connections
17:03 Closing Thoughts and Community Impact
 
❤️Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit to create a BIG impact in your life.❤️
 
✨Thank you for SHARING this to spread the word on how we can all CONNECT more people to receive the custom insurance SUPPORT they need.✨
 
Learn more about Lynnsie (with lots of pictures) and how she helps our community: 🍞🧀🥜👇
MyFESTUS.com/Lynnsie
 
As always, BIG SHOUT OUT and a THANK YOU to Ray Halbrook with Live Stream STL for his production talents!
 
Keywords
MyFestus, insurance, community, business, charcuterie, local connections, custom insurance, small business, networking, Missouri, Lynnsie Kerperien 
 

🍤🎤🎶Culture and Culinary Connections in Our Community

🍤🎤🎶Culture and Culinary Connections in Our Community
 
Summary
In this 32 minute episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara engages with Luke Tetrault from Taytro's, Petit Paree, and The Contrarian. They discuss local cuisine, the importance of community, and the role of art in fostering connections. Luke educates on the unique flavors and history of Cajun food, the legacy of Petit Paree, and the new cultural hub, The Contrarian, emphasizing the significance of creativity and expression in building a vibrant community.
 
Itty-Bitty Takeaways
The podcast emphasizes the importance of community and connection.
Cajun cuisine is highlighted as a unique American tradition.
Taytro's restaurant offers a blend of culinary arts and live music.
The Contrarian serves as a new cultural hub for local artists.
Art and creativity are essential for personal expression and community growth.
Stand-up comedy is seen as a modern form of artistic expression.
Local establishments are encouraged to foster a sense of belonging.
The significance of maintaining cultural heritage in restaurants is discussed.
Live music enhances the dining experience at Taytro's.
Community is built through shared experiences and creativity.
 
Quotable Sound Bites
"It's definitely a New Orleans vibe."
"Cajun is the only real American cuisine."
"Art is a way to express how you feel."
"Stand-up comedy is the new punk rock."
"You have to get off the couch."
"Community is something we create."
 
❤️Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit to create a BIG impact in your life.❤️
 
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to MyFestus.com Conversations
01:06 Exploring Charcuterie and Local Cuisine
03:30 Tatro's: A Culinary Journey
05:58 The Arts and Live Music at Tatro's
08:53 Cajun Cuisine: A Unique American Tradition
11:14 Petit Paree: A Legacy of French Cuisine
14:31 The Contrarian: A New Cultural Hub
17:25 The Importance of Being Contrarian
19:48 Art as a Means of Expression
21:57 Stand-Up Comedy: The New Punk Rock
23:52 Creating a Community Through Art
26:41 The Role of Culture in Community Building
29:06 Fostering Local Talent and Creativity
 
✨Thank you for SHARING this to spread the love for positive culture and culinary CONNECTIONS as we all SUPPORT a creative community.✨
 
Learn more about ALL the cool places we discussed on: 🍤🎤🎶👇
MyFESTUS.com/Luke
 
As always, BIG SHOUT OUT and a THANK YOU to Ray Halbrook with Live Stream STL for his production talents!
 
Keywords
MyFestus, local cuisine, charcuterie, Taytro's, Cajun food, Petit Paree, The Contrarian, live music, community, arts
 
#myfestus #ittybitty #festusmissouri #festusmo #jeffersoncounty #jeffersoncountymo #jeffersoncountymissouri #taytros #taytrosbarandbistro #petitparee #thecontrarian
 

❤️ 🏠🐝The Busy Bee of Festus: Alicia V in the Community!

❤️ 🏠🐝The Busy Bee of Festus: Alicia V in the Community!
 
Summary
In this 22 minute episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara welcomes Alicia Vazquez, a dynamic figure in the Festus community, to discuss her multifaceted life as a real estate agent, beekeeper, and community advocate. Alicia shares insights into balancing a busy lifestyle and the current trends in the housing market in 2025. The conversation also touches on why families are relocating to Festus and the sense of community that makes the area special.
 
Itty-Bitty Takeaways
Alicia is a prominent figure in the Festus community.
She balances multiple roles including real estate, beekeeping, and community service.
Alicia emphasizes the importance of scheduling and time management.
Building relationships is key to success in real estate.
RE/MAX provides a strong brand identity that supports agents.
The real estate market is shifting towards affordability.
There is a growing demand for new construction in Jefferson County.
Families are moving to Festus for its community and school district.
Alicia feels a strong connection to her community, likening it to a Hallmark movie.
Networking and community involvement are crucial for local businesses.
 
Quotable Sound Bites
"We have about 80 hives."
"My schedule is my Bible."
"That's what RE/MAX is all about."
"I was Rookie of the Year."
 
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to MyFestus.com Conversations
01:06 Meet Alicia V: The Busy Bee of Festus
04:43 Balancing a Busy Lifestyle
06:30 The Importance of Brand in Real Estate
08:48 Navigating the Real Estate Market
12:31 Building Dreams: The Home Construction Process
13:50 Real Estate Trends for 2025
17:11 Why People are Moving to Festus
19:34 Community and Connection in Festus
 
Learn more about everything we discussed on:❤️ 🏠🐝 👇
MyFESTUS.com/AliciaV
 
As always, BIG SHOUT OUT and a THANK YOU to Ray Halbrook with Live Stream STL for his production talents!
 
✨Thank you for SHARING this to spread the word on how we can all CONNECT more people to SUPPORT our Hallmark movie community.✨
 
❤️Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit to create a BIG impact in your life.❤️
 
🥫Learn more about Alicia and how she helps the Ozark Food Pantry: 💛🥫❤️👇
MyFESTUS.com/OzarkConversation
 
Keywords
MyFestus, real estate, community, Festus, Jefferson County, Alicia V, home building, local business, networking, affordable housing

💛🥫❤️Understanding Hunger: A Conversation with the Ozark Food Pantry

💛🥫❤️Understanding Hunger: A Conversation with the Ozark Food Pantry
Summary
In this 26 minute episode of the MyFESTUS.com Conversation Show, host Sara engages with Lynnsie and Alicia from the Ozark Food Pantry to discuss the importance of community support and food distribution. They share insights on the pantry's operations, the challenges faced in serving the community, and the vital role of volunteers. The conversation highlights the need for awareness about hunger in the area and encourages listeners to get involved, whether through volunteering or donations.
 
Itty-Bitty Takeaways
Food makes us feel good and is often taken for granted.
Many people in our community are hungry and need help.
The Ozark Food Pantry has been operating for nearly 30 years.
On average, 200 families are served each week at the pantry.
Volunteers play a crucial role in the pantry's operations.
Cereal and peanut butter are among the most needed items.
The pantry allows individuals to come every other week for food.
Community support is essential for the pantry's success.
Awareness about hunger in the community is vital.
Everyone is welcome at the pantry, and no one is turned away.
 
Quotable Sound Bites
"Food makes us feel good."
"We try to provide that safe space."
"We served 668 families in August."
"It's a very busy, fast pace."
"Cereal is a big need for us."
 
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to MyFestus.com Conversation Show
01:06 Food and Community Awareness
04:15 Ozark Food Pantry Overview
07:30 Saturday Distribution Process
12:30 Volunteer Opportunities and Needs
18:00 Community Impact and Awareness
20:20 The Importance of Community Support
 
🥫Learn more about everything we discussed on: 💛🥫❤️👇
MyFESTUS.com/OzarkConversation
As always, BIG SHOUT OUT and a THANK YOU to Ray Halbrook with ⁠Live Stream STL⁠ for his production talents!
 
✨Thank you for SHARING this to spread the word on how we can all CONNECT more people to SUPPORT a well-fed community.✨
 
❤️Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit to create a BIG impact in your life.❤️
SOOO many more inspiring leaders and stories on: 💛🥫❤️👇
⁠MyFESTUS.com⁠
 
Keywords
MyFestus, Ozark Food Pantry, community support, food distribution, volunteer opportunities, local awareness, hunger relief, Festus, Jefferson County, food donations

❤️🎭🎶The Power of Community Theater, Continuing the Conversation with Courtney Wisely - PART 2 OF 2:

❤️🎭🎶The Power of Community Theater, Continuing the Conversation with Courtney Wisely - PART 2 OF 2:
 
Podcast Summary
In this episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara speaks with Courtney Wisely, the founder of Spotlight Community Theatre. They discuss the journey of establishing the theater during the pandemic, the overwhelming community response, and the diverse age range of participants involved in productions.
Courtney shares insights on the growth of the theater, the importance of community engagement, and the various ways individuals can support and participate in the theatre's mission. The conversation culminates in a heartfelt reflection on the essence of community and the connections formed through the arts.
 
Itty-Bitty, Inspiring Takeaways
Courtney Wisely founded Spotlight Community Theater during the pandemic.
The initial meeting attracted nearly 100 people, exceeding expectations.
The theater welcomes participants from ages four to 92.
Spotlight Community Theater produced four shows in its first year.
The theater has grown to include eight shows in the upcoming 2025 season.
Community engagement is crucial for the theatre's success.
There are numerous ways for individuals to get involved, both on and off stage.
Membership offers perks like VIP seating and early access to tickets.
The theatre fosters a sense of family and belonging among participants.
Community means having support and love from those around you.
Quotable Sound Bites
"We had to call the fire marshal almost."
"We had 140 people show up to audition."
"We sold out every show. It was insane."
 
❤️Thank you for SHARING this to CONNECT more people to positive values as we all SUPPORT a community full of love.❤️
 
Find Part 1 of this conversation and learn more about ALL THE THINGS we discuss on:❤️🎭🎶👇
MyFESTUS.com/ConversationWithCourtney
 
Podcast Chapters
00:00 Welcome to MyFESTUS.com Conversations
01:07 Meet Courtney Wisely: A Community Theater Visionary
03:22 The Birth of Spotlight Community Theater
06:11 Community Engagement and Theater Participation
08:27 The Growth of Spotlight Community Theater
11:15 Expanding the Theater Season
13:54 Getting Involved: Community Support and Membership
18:09 The Essence of Community
 
Podcast Keywords
MyFESTUS, community theater, Spotlight Community Theatre, Courtney Wisely, theater participation, community engagement, local arts, theater growth, Missouri, Festus
 
#myfestus #ittybitty #festusmissouri #festusmo #jeffersoncounty #jeffersoncountymo #jeffersoncountymissouri #spotlightcommunitytheatre #spotlightjeffco #spotlightcommunity

🎫🎵🎭A Conversation with Courtney on Community Theatre: PART 1 of 2

🎫🎵🎭A Conversation with Courtney on Community Theatre: PART 1 OF 2
Short gals unite…one who knows a thing or two about theatre😉…and one who knows nothing! 😆
Regardless of how much you know about theatre, you will enjoy watching and listening to this amusing PART ONE of this two-part podcast episode featuring Courtney Wisely, community leader and founder of Spotlight Community Theater. 
In addition to explaining some basics about plays vs. musical productions, Courtney opens up with her vulnerable story of why she started Spotlight Community Theatre in Festus, Missouri and how far she has come. Her vision and follow through is beyond impressive!
 
Podcast Episode Summary
In this episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara speaks with Courtney Wisely, the founder of Spotlight Community Theatre. They discuss the importance of community theater, Courtney's journey from a troubled childhood to becoming a theater visionary, and the impact of Spotlight Community Theatre on the local community. The conversation highlights the transformative power of theater, the challenges of starting a community theater, and the growth of Spotlight Community Theatre in Festus, Missouri.
 
IttyBitty, Inspiring Takeaways
Theater can be a transformative experience for individuals.
Community theater fills a vital role in local culture.
Spotlight Community Theater aims to provide opportunities for all.
The journey of starting a theater is filled with challenges.
Theater can create a sense of family and belonging.
Engagement in the arts can change lives for the better.
Spotlight Community Theatre has grown significantly since its inception.
Theater productions involve many behind-the-scenes efforts.
 
Quotable Sound Bite
"We are the Muny of Jefferson County."
 
Shout out to Ray Halbrook with Live Stream STL + Michelle Ganey with Festus Middle School who were mentioned in this episode.
For more information about this incredible nonprofit organization + upcoming shows, check out:🎫🎵🎭👇
MyFESTUS.com/ConversationWithCourtney
 
🎭Thank you for SHARING this to CONNECT more people to transform as we all SUPPORT a community rich with culture.🎭
 
Podcast Episode Chapters
00:00 Welcome to MyFESTUS.com Conversations
01:07 Meet Courtney Wisely: A Community Theater Visionary
03:49 Spotlight Community Theater: The Journey Begins
07:27 The Transformative Power of Theater
10:14 Building a Community Theater in Festus
12:52 Spotlight's Growth and Community Impact
Keywords
MyFESTUS, community theater, Spotlight Community Theater, Courtney Wisely, Festus, Missouri, theater education, local arts, community engagement, performing arts
#myfestus #ittybitty #festusmissouri #festusmo #jeffersoncounty #jeffersoncountymo #jeffersoncountymissouri #spotlightcommunitytheatre #spotlightjeffco #spotlightcommunity

👮🏼‍♂️💙🛒First Responders Respond to Family Needs with Jeffco Shop with a Cop: a Conversation with Captain Lewis Pippin

👮🏼‍♂️💙🛒First Responders Respond to Family Needs with Jeffco Shop with a Cop: a Conversation with Captain Lewis Pippin:
 
Summary
In this podcast episode of the MyFESTUS.com Conversations show, host Sara speaks with Captain Lewis Pippin of the Festus Police Department about the Jeffco Shop with a Cop program. They discuss the origins of the nonprofit, its growth over the years, and the positive impact it has on underprivileged children during the holiday season. Lewis shares heartwarming stories from the community, the importance of first responders creating positive experiences for children, and how the community can get involved to support this impactful initiative. Their conversation emphasizes the significance of community connection and support.
 
Itty-Bitty, Inspiring Takeaways
Jeffco Shop with a Cop started to help underprivileged kids during Christmas.
The program has grown from serving 17 kids in 2017 to nearly 600 kids in 2024.
Counselors from local schools help identify children in need.
The program fosters positive interactions between children and first responders.
Community involvement is crucial for the success of the program.
Events and fundraisers can be organized to raise money for the initiative.
Every dollar donated makes a difference in a child's life.
The experience of shopping with first responders is memorable for kids.
Community is seen as family and a source of positivity. 
 
Quotable Sound Bites
 
"We started running that program together."
"We answered some prayers all year long."
"It's a fun, positive energy."
"Community is family."
 
💙Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit to create a BIG impact in your life.💙
 
Learn how to connect with Jeffco Shop with a Cop + read another story I wrote about this impressive, miraculous local nonprofit organization:👮🏼‍♂️💙🛒⬇️
MyFESTUS.com/Jeffco-Shop-with-a-Cop
 
👮🏼‍♂️Thank you for SHARING this to SPREAD THE WORD as you CONNECT more people to SUPPORT a generous and compassionate community.👮🏼‍♂️
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to MyFESTUS.com Conversations
01:07 Meet Captain Lewis Pippin
03:26 Understanding Jeffco Shop with a Cop
08:07 Growth and Impact of the Program
10:27 Heartwarming Stories from the Community
12:45 The Experience of Shopping with First Responders
16:06 Community Involvement and Support
18:26 The Meaning of Community to Lewis Pippin
 
Keywords
MyFESTUS, community, Jeffco Shop with a Cop, local leaders, Festus Missouri, police department, nonprofit organization, community support, holiday giving, first responders
 
#jeffcoshopwithacop #myfestus #ittybitty #jeffersoncountymo #festuspolice #festus #festusmissouri #festusmo #jeffersoncounty #jeffersoncountymo #jeffersoncountymissouri 
 

☀️📸🌿Anxiety Cannot Exist When…

☀️📸🌿Anxiety Cannot Exist When…
Summary
In this short and sweet solo podcast episode, Sara reflects on her experience with creativity and its positive impact on anxiety. Inspired by a talk from Gabby Bernstein, she shares how engaging in creative activities, like photography, allowed her to experience moments of flow and joy, free from anxious thoughts. She emphasizes the importance of carving out time for creativity in daily life to nourish the soul and enhance emotional well-being.
 
Itty-Bitty, Inspiring Takeaways
Listening to inspirational talks can spark creativity.
Creativity can help alleviate anxiety.
Engaging in creative activities fosters a state of flow.
Small, itty-bitty moments of creativity can have a big impact on our mental state of mind.
Mindfulness and creativity are interconnected.
Capturing beauty in everyday life can be therapeutic.
Incorporating creativity into daily routines is beneficial.
Nature and seasonal changes can inspire creativity.
Intentional moments of creativity can nourish the soul.
 
☀️Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit to create a BIG impact in your life.☀️
 
More creativity flowed after this creative photoshoot. Read that and find out where you can get this fantastic Festus mug + a succulent like this on: ☀️📸🌿👇
MyFESTUS.com/Anxiety-Cannot-Exist
 
🌿Thank you for SHARING this to CONNECT more people to eliminate or reduce anxiety
as we all SUPPORT a creative community.🌿
 
Chapters
00:00 Embracing Creativity to Combat Anxiety
05:07 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments
Keywords
creativity, anxiety, Gabby Bernstein, mindfulness, self-care, personal growth, inspiration, photography, fall decor, emotional well-being
 
#myfestus #ittybitty #festusmissouri #festus #festusmo #ittybittyanything #sundayreflections #gabbybernstein #treeoflife

💛🥫❤️Carmelita Davidson’s Daily Dozen

💛🥫❤️Carmelita Davidson’s Daily Dozen:
In this 14-minute surprise tribute episode on the MyFESTUS.com Conversations, I (Sara) introduce Carmelita Davidson, a community leader generously serving in Jefferson County, Missouri. I share how Carmelita has made significant contributions to our local area through various initiatives, including the Ozark Food Pantry. 🥫
Enjoy learning about the fascinating highlights of Carmelita's inspiring journey from the Philippines to the U.S., her dedication to service, and the principles she lives by, collectively coined and referred to (by me!) as the “Davidson Daily Dozen.”💛
These itty-bitty, yet impactful principles emphasize gratitude, kindness, and community engagement, specific to each of us. 
What is your favorite principle? ❤️
I am so excited for you to listen and share what inspires you, in the comments.
I also share what you might be able to do if you feel called to help the hungry folks in our community through the Ozark Food Pantry. 🥫
 
✨Thank you for SHARING this to SPREAD THE LOVE for Carmelita + CONNECT more people as we all SUPPORT an inspired community.✨
Itty-Bitty, Inspiring Takeaways
Carmelita Davidson is a respected community leader.
Her journey from the Philippines to the U.S. is inspiring.
She has been actively involved in local initiatives for years.
The Ozark Food Pantry serves hundreds of families weekly.
Carmelita's enthusiasm and optimism are contagious.
The “Davidson Daily Dozen” consists of 12 life principles.
Gratitude and kindness are central to her philosophy.
Conversations can foster deeper connections and understanding.
Everyone has unique gifts to contribute to the world.
Community engagement is vital for personal and collective growth.
 
Quotable Sound Bite
"You are needed in this world."
 
❤️Thank you for making listening an itty-bitty habit to create a BIG impact in your life.❤️
 
More Information on all:
⁠MyFESTUS.com/OzarkFoodPantry⁠
⁠MyFESTUS.com/CarmelitaDavidson⁠
 
SOOO many more inspiring LOCAL leaders and stories under the “Friends” category on: 💛🥫❤️👇
⁠MyFESTUS.com⁠
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Carmelita Davidson
02:56 Carmelita's Journey and Community Impact
05:48 The Davidson Daily Dozen: Principles of Living
11:56 The Power of Connection and Community Engagement
Keywords
Carmelita Davidson, community leader, Ozark food pantry, gratitude, daily principles, personal growth, volunteerism, leadership, Festus Missouri, inspiration
 
#myfestus #ittybitty #festusmissouri #festusmo #jeffersoncounty #jeffersoncountymo #jeffersoncountymissouri #ozarkfoodpantry #feedourpeople #carmelitadavidson