In The Know In The 920

Sometimes an unexpected change can lead you exactly where you're meant to be! Kelly & Nick are joined this week by Jen Plamann, owner of The Gathering Hub, to talk about how losing her corporate job turned into the opportunity to finally pursue something she'd always wanted to do.Jen shares how being laid off due to company downsizing gave her the push she needed to take a chance on herself. Knowing that if she didn't go for it now, she might never do it, she purchased a building, spent months renovating the space, and eventually opened the doors to her very first event.Today, The Gathering Hub has become a busy event space, sometimes hosting as many as four events in a single weekend! Jen talks about what it's like running nearly every aspect of the business herself, the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, and how grateful she is for the family and friends who step in to help when things get busy.From an unexpected career change to building a business that brings people together, Jen's story is a reminder that sometimes taking a chance on yourself can lead to something pretty incredible. Check it out!

Technology is everywhere, and it's changing the way we live, work, and connect! Kelly & Nick are joined this week by Aslinn Merriman and Kelly Decker of Women in Tech Wisconsin to talk about the evolving world of technology and how they're helping break down barriers and create more opportunities for women in the industry.From the shift toward cashless payments and mobile banking to the technology used in real estate, podcast production, and everyday life, Aslinn and Kelly share how technology goes far beyond what most people traditionally think of as IT. They discuss how quickly things have changed, especially since the pandemic, and why understanding technology is becoming increasingly important across nearly every industry.They also dive into the mission behind Women in Tech Wisconsin and the importance of helping young girls and women see themselves in careers they may have never considered. Through educational programs, hands-on activities like binary coding bracelets, and opportunities for different age groups, they're showing the next generation that technology offers so many different paths.It's a conversation about innovation, opportunity, and the importance of showing people what's possible. Because sometimes, if you can't see it, you can't be it. Check it out!

There's something special about experiencing the performing arts live, and Maria Van Laanen knows firsthand just how powerful those moments can be! In this special bonus episode, Kelly & Nick are joined by Maria of the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center to talk about her journey into the world of theater and the incredible impact the arts can have on a community.Maria shares how her curiosity led her from selling tickets and working in theater marketing to discovering her passion for live performances during college. She also talks about what makes the Fox Cities such a special community and gives listeners a look at the exciting shows and experiences coming to the PAC this season.Beyond the stage, Maria highlights the PAC's commitment to education and making the arts accessible to students. From daytime educational performances and classroom resources to scholarship opportunities that help students attend at no cost, the PAC is creating experiences that can inspire the next generation.From unforgettable performances to the opportunities happening behind the scenes, this episode is a reminder that the performing arts are about so much more than entertainment. They're about connection, education, and creating moments that can change lives. Check it out!

When women and girls have the resources and opportunities to succeed, the entire community benefits. Kelly & Nick are joined this week by Julie Keller with the Women’s Fund for the Fox Valley Region to talk about the organization’s more than 30-year mission of breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for women and girls.Julie shares how the Women’s Fund began when 100 women and some men each donated $1,000 to create a fund specifically focused on the challenges facing women and girls. Since then, they’ve invested more than $3 million into the community through nonprofit organizations, programs, and initiatives like Starting Point, which helps single mothers continue their education.They also dive into the importance of helping young girls see what’s possible for their futures, especially in fields like STEM where women continue to be underrepresented. From education and career opportunities to identifying where women need additional support, the Women’s Fund is working to create lasting change throughout the Fox Valley.It’s a conversation about opportunity, community, and making sure women and girls have the support they need to succeed. Check it out!

Being Miss Wisconsin is about so much more than wearing a crown. Kelly & Nick are joined by Miss Wisconsin 2026, Jordenne Butler, to talk about the journey that started when she was just 13 years old and eventually led her to representing communities across the state.Jordenne shares how watching her dance teacher win Mrs. Wisconsin in 2009 first opened her eyes to the world of competitions and the scholarship opportunities that came with it. Since then, she’s competed six times, held the title of Miss Teen Wisconsin, and built friendships with people who have become some of her closest friends.Now at 27, Jordenne is experiencing an exciting full-circle moment as Miss Wisconsin 2026. She talks about traveling across Wisconsin, connecting with different communities, giving back, and getting to do a job she truly loves.From the relationships she’s built to the persistence it took to get here, Jordenne shares why this experience has always been about so much more than the crown. Check it out!