In this episode of The Real Chat Podcast, hosts Baxter, Allyson, and Mandi welcome Maggie Cox, owner of Let's Toast Event Rentals and pediatric dental hygienist.The conversation explores Maggie's creative journey, her passion for event planning, and the importance of collaboration within the industry. They discuss the impact of meaningful events, the evolution of Maggie's business, and the joy of making people feel special through her work.The episode emphasizes the significance of community support and the beauty of creativity in entrepreneurship. In this engaging conversation, they discuss the importance of building relationships in business, creating memorable experiences for clients, and the journey of personal growth through entrepreneurship. They explore the balance of managing multiple passions, understanding budgeting for events, and the significance of giving back to the community.Maggie shares her aspirations for future growth in her event planning business, emphasizing the value of networking and collaboration in achieving success.Learn more about Let's Toast Events: https://www.instagram.com/letstoast_events/

In this episode of the Real Chat Podcast, Baxter Colburn, Allyson Elise, and Mandi Wilke engage in a lively discussion about Halloween traditions, the creative journey of small business Ink and Splash with owner Ashley Mattek, and the profound connection between art and mental health. They explore how creative expression can serve as a therapeutic outlet, the importance of community support, and the personal stories that inspire their work. The conversation also touches on future aspirations for the business and the impact of art on emotional well-being.Learn more about Ink + Splash by visiting their website: https://www.inkandsplash.art/Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Real Chat Podcast02:07 Halloween Memories and Traditions04:06 Introducing Ink and Splash: A Creative Journey09:54 The Intersection of Art and Mental Health17:57 Community Engagement and Business Growth24:01 Creative Expression and Personal Stories29:54 The Science Behind Art and Mental Health36:07 Future Goals and Aspirations for Ink and Splash

In this episode of the Real Chat Podcast, hosts, Baxter Colburn, Allyson Elise, and Mandi Wilkie delve into the multifaceted journey of entrepreneurship. They reflect on their personal experiences, the importance of relationships and mentorship, and the impact of community and collaboration in business. The conversation emphasizes the significance of self-recognition, finding supportive networks, and maintaining grace in business relationships, all while navigating the challenges of being an entrepreneur.Chapters00:00 The Journey of Entrepreneurship03:02 Reflecting on Relationships and Mentorship05:47 The Impact of Community and Collaboration09:06 Navigating Challenges and Personal Growth11:57 The Importance of Self-Recognition14:47 Finding Your Tribe17:58 Community Over Competition20:47 Grace in Business Relationships

In this episode of the Real Chat Podcast, hosts, Baxter Colburn, Allyson Elise, and Mandi Wilkie share personal updates, including new puppies and ongoing home renovations. They discuss the busy season for family photography, emphasizing the importance of capturing authentic moments rather than staged photos. The conversation shifts to themes of confidence, personal growth, and the evolution of entrepreneurship, highlighting the significance of authenticity and finding the right clientele. The hosts reflect on their transitions from full-time employment to entrepreneurship, sharing insights on navigating change and the importance of investing in oneself.

Something new and fun is in the air in Manitowoc, WI. Joining the podcast this week are Mikala and Joey DeBone, the founders of Little Sips Play Cafe in Manitowoc. They discuss the unique concept of a play cafe, which combines a safe play environment for children with a coffee shop for parents. The DeBones share their journey of starting the business, the challenges they faced, and the importance of community support. They emphasize the need for such spaces for families and the positive impact they can have on parenting and social connections.Learn More about Little Sips: https://www.littlesipsplaycafe.com/Follow Them: https://www.instagram.com/littlesips_manitowoc/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553621457807Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Play Cafe Concept03:13 The Unique Features of Little Sips Play Cafe06:00 Creating a Safe and Engaging Environment for Kids09:06 The Business Model and Community Impact11:46 The Journey of Starting a Business15:02 The Role of Community and Support17:52 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Growth

On today's episode, Mandi, Ally, and Baxter engage in a lively discussion with Theresa Schroeder about personal style, the challenges of building an authentic brand online, and the importance of finding balance in the fast-paced world of social media entrepreneurship. They explore the significance of authenticity in business, the role of mentorship, and how to connect with audiences in a meaningful way. The conversation emphasizes the journey of self-discovery in business and the need for women entrepreneurs to embrace their unique voices and stories.------------------Chapters00:00 Fashion Inspirations and Personal Styles03:12 Building Authentic Brands Online06:04 The Challenges of Social Media Entrepreneurship09:09 Finding Balance in a Digital World12:05 Creating a Personal Brand14:54 The Importance of Authenticity in Business17:49 Mentorship and Community in Entrepreneurship21:04 Connecting with Your Audience23:57 The Journey of Self-Discovery in Business

In this episode of the Real Chat Podcast, hosts Baxter, Mandi, and Ally, welcome Adam and Liza Holden. They discuss their backgrounds in art, the transition from corporate jobs to entrepreneurship, and the challenges and joys of working together. The conversation explores their creative processes, client engagement, and the impact of the pandemic on their businesses. They also share their future aspirations and the importance of work-life balance as entrepreneurs.Learn more about Crafted TulipLearn more about Holden's Painting Company----------------------Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Real Chat Podcast01:06 Meet the Husband and Wife Team02:49 Art Background and Journey05:09 Transitioning to Painting Business07:04 The Birth of Holden's Painting09:32 Client Engagement and Creative Process11:59 Finding Inspiration and Overcoming Challenges14:36 The Art of Freehand Painting16:26 Balancing Work and Family Life19:06 Navigating Business During the Pandemic22:11 Roles and Responsibilities in the Business24:53 Future Goals and Aspirations

In this episode of the Real Chat podcast, Baxter, Mandi, and Ally engage in an authentic conversation with Libby Carlson, a successful Mary Kay entrepreneur. They discuss the importance of authenticity in business, the journey into direct sales, balancing family life with a thriving business, and the challenges of leadership. Libby shares her insights on self-care, the significance of community, and the realities of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the need for resilience and support in the face of challenges.Chapters00:00 Authenticity in Conversations05:00 Journey into Mary Kay09:55 Balancing Family and Business15:08 Leadership and Team Building19:59 Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Success

It's crazy to think that Season 2 of The Real Chat Podcast is officially complete. Our guests this season brought new and exciting conversations to the show that each of the hosts loved! Baxter, Mandi, and Ally reflect on the past season, talk about their favorite memories, and give updates on what the future looks like in each of their businesses. Season 3 will debut in September of 2024! Thanks for listening! 

When we say Ally brought a guest off the street, that is a little extreme. However, our guest today really met Ally for the first time an hour before we recorded our episode. Sometimes God just works in mysterious ways! We're thrilled to welcome Amber Broihier to the podcast today! Her work with Self Love is changing the Green Bay community for the better and we cannot wait for you to hear her new business. 

We'd much rather be on Mandi's boat today instead of recording in a studio, but, we want to bring you a new episode, so here we are! Summertime is busy for everyone, from travel to kids out of school, to just wanting to be outside more. So, with all of that, when do you make time for your business? Do you scale back in summer or do you take advantage of the nice weather and hit the business path hard? We chat about that and so much more on today's episode! PS: If you would rather look at us than listen to us, head over to YouTube and subscribe/watch to The Real Chat Podcast youtube page. You won't be disappointed! 

Our day is dramatically brightened up with our incredible guest, Summer Rich, owner of Baskets by Summer (@basket_girlie)! Summer shares her incredible story and how she made the most of a second chance at life with her new business that continues to bring joy to people around the country. We hope you enjoy today's episode as much as we did recording it with Summer! 

As business owners and friends, Baxter, Ally, and Mandi often need to check in with each other to make sure each is doing ok in their personal lives and professional lives. Often business owners do their best to cheer each other on, but rarely stop to ask two sometimes hard questions to answer honestly "How are you? and How is your business doing?". Things get REAL today from the hosts as they unpack and share their true thoughts about how life and business are treating them so far in 2024. From growth in personal family relationships to new potential changes in their lives in business, to, yes, even Baxter crying (more sobbing than full-blown balling his eyes out lol), the hosts share laughs, real talk, and quality conversation on today's episode. 

Baxter cannot contain his excitement as one of his FAVORITE small businesses joins the podcast today. Alicia Forsberg, co-owner of Mile 22 Roastery in Black Creek stops by for a chat and cup of coffee with The Real Chat hosts. We hear about her story from a simple passion project to a full-blown storefront location in downtown Black Creek, WI.This episode is easily one of Baxter, Ally, and Mandi's favorites to date. 

The title might be a little misleading because we don't actually think we will get cancelled for this episode.However, during the recording, Baxter, Ally, and Mandi spoke from the heart and don't hold back on some topics regarding business, life, and relationships. This episode never had a true starting point but somehow we ended up with almost 30 minutes of content for you. Normally we are much more planned out and less chaotic 😂. We hope you like this episode, and if not, well, try again next week. Trust us, you will love our next guest. 

Joining the podcast this week is former Green Bay Mayor, Jim Schmitt. After four terms in office as Mayor of Green Bay, Mayor Jim now serves his community as a radio host and professor. He works to help the next generation learn about business and entrepreneurship and helps foster important relationships for his students to make an impact in the world. Ally, Mandi, and Baxter can't wait for you to learn all about the many stories from former Mayor Jim Schmitt. Don't forget to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Along with Facebook and Instagram.

One of our amazing listeners sent in a question towards the end of Season One asking "What have you manifested in your business?" and it got us thinking. Today, Baxter, Ally, and Mandi recall times when they've put goals and vision for their business into the world and how they pursued it and ultimately achieved those goals. Goals are important for the growth and development of a business, otherwise, you become stagnant and flat, which never serves a business well. Have a question for the hosts? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us a DM on Facebook or Instagram, and search for The Real Chat on both platforms. 

Season Two of The Real Chat Podcast is here!The world has kept us busy with school ending, a new baby arriving, business growing, and everyday life - who would have thought right? Now that the gang is back together, it is time to get "real" for the first time this season. Baxter, Mandi, and Ally sit down and discuss what a "normal" week in their respective lives looks like as entrepreneurs, and they quickly learn that no two business owners' weeks are the same. What does a normal week look like in your business? We'd love to hear about it! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on the latest happenings with The Real Chat Podcast. 

Our final episode of season one arrives with all the feels and emotions of how fast the first 11 episodes went by with you guys! The good news is we will be back in about a month or two with new episodes, new guests, and more real chats. Baxter, Ally, and Mandi play some getting-to-know-you games today to help learn more about each other and give you a window into who each of them is as well. Laughter always ensues, so enjoy getting to know more about your favorite Real Chat hosts. What was your favorite part of season one? We'd love to hear from you!

It's time we dive a bit deeper into this season of The Real Chat podcast. Today, we focus on two important topics we face in our business almost daily. 1). What do you get asked about the most in your business from other people? and 2). What keeps you up at night about your business?Two straightforward questions with a LOT of depth to the answers from Allyson, Mandi, and Baxter. Grab some popcorn and dive in as we explore deeper parts of our businesses and how we operate each of them.

After a brief break from business and family trips, Baxter, Allyson, and Mandi return to the studio to chat once again! For the first time, the trio spends time catching up with life, talking about the Super Bowl, Allyson's amazing tropical wedding shoot, and many other items. Some weeks the gang dives deeper into business topics, and others, it is nice to just say hi to your friends and see how life is and how they are doing personally. Be sure to check out The Real Chat Podcast on Facebook & Instagram (@realchatpod) and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and follow us on Spotify!

As entrepreneurs, we often get asked how we handle the pressure of running a business and managing life outside our day-to-day work. Today, we answer the important question we sometimes overlook, "What do my kids/family think of my work and how does what I do every day in my business affect them?" Mandi's daughter Raleigh joins the podcast for insight on this very topic. Her interview allowed us to pull back the curtain and provide reminders and context to those working with kids at home. If you haven't followed us on Facebook or Instagram yet, we'd love to connect! Don't forget you can also watch every episode for free on YouTube. Just search for The Real Chat Podcast.

Rest.How can we rest properly as a business owner? Especially when we are the only ones running our business?We get real today because Lord knows we need to figure this rest thing out soon. Rest should not be a guilt-inducing process. We each deserve opportunities to rest in our daily and weekly schedules. If we don't, we burn out, and what good is that to our clients?

Maybe you've seen the latest social media trend to start 2024, people are posting their "Ins" and "Outs", or in other words, what their goals are and what they plan to get rid of this year.Baxter, Allyson, and Mandi decide to jump in on this trend and bring some of their ideas for the year into their lives and in business. Some common themes show up from all three hosts, along with helpful ideas for each of them to improve along the way.Did you create your own Ins and Outs list this year? We'd love to hear it! Tag us on social media or send us a DM so we can be inspired by your goals in 2024.

Joining the show today is Seth Colburn of Seth's Ner-Fun. Not often do we have guests from other states, but when they are up for the Holidays, you sneak in a podcast recording. Seth started his business four years ago, at the age of 16! He now continues to grow and work through the challenges of running a business, especially an event-based business. Learn more about his story and how he is bringing foam flingin' fun to the greater Naples, FL area! Learn More - https://www.sethsnerfun.com/

If you live in the Green Bay, WI area, you know it is almost impossible to not encounter Dr. Sadey and her amazing team at Lux Life Chiropractic. Today, Baxter, Ally, and Mandi welcome Dr. Sadey to talk about her journey in business and, ultimately, how her business is so much more than a business. At Lux Life, they are a community-centered chiropractic office serving kids and families so that they can live their best life. They have a vision to grow a community where kids are healthy, happy, and connected to themselves and the world around them. Where moms and dads feel supported, inspired, and loved. This vision of lives filled with life and light comes through the lens of chiropractic and it's their life purpose! You can learn more about Lux Life here: https://www.luxlifechiropractic.com/

Dive into the holiday spirit with the latest episode of 'The Real Chat' where hosts Baxter Colburn, Allyson Elise, and Mandi Wilke share their personal Christmas preparations, laughter over unique physical traits, and the challenges of balancing work and festive traditions. Revel in conversations about the joys of decorating with family, the pressures of the season for photographers, and the importance of community over competition in the business world. Tune in for tales of early Christmas music, movie traditions, and heartwarming insights into hosting and connecting with loved ones over the holidays.7 Key Themes:1. Holiday decoration traditions. 2. Photography business challenges. 3. Valuing personal business style. 4. Importance of supportive community. 5. Experiencing imposter syndrome. 6. Authenticity in client relationships. 7. Coping with negative self-talk.