Talk of the Town

A Bold New Chapter for the Trout Museum of Art

The Trout Museum of Art is entering a bold new era! Marketing Manager Ashley Acker joins us to share a behind-the-scenes look at the museum’s brand-new building, rotating exhibits, creative studio spaces, and fresh new brand. Tune in to hear how the Trout is reimagining art in our community — and how you can experience it all for FREE through 2026!
 
The Trout Museum of Art 
325 E. College Avenue 
920-733-4089

Resale Reimagined at Beatnik Betty's Resale Butik

Monika Austin, owner of Beatnik Betty’s Resale Butik, shares how she turned her passion for thrifting into a one-of-a-kind resale shop in Downtown Appleton. From hand-picked wardrobe staples to her unique “ReBetty” redesigned pieces, Monika talks about running a one-woman business, collaborating with fellow downtown shops, and creating fashion that starts trends instead of following them.
 
Beatnik Betty's Resale Butik 
214 E. College Avenue 
920-882-4140

Empowering Abilities: SOAR Fox Cities with Erin Schultz-Wege

In this episode, Erin Schultz-Wege from SOAR Fox Cities joins us to share how the organization uplifts people of all abilities through meaningful programs and community connections. She also highlights the simple ways you can get involved—whether it’s becoming a member, volunteering, or lending your support.
SOAR Fox Cities
211 E. Franklin Street, Suite A 

Behind the Curtain: Discovering the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center

In this episode, we go behind the curtain with the PAC team to explore its history, what first-time visitors can expect, and the incredible staff and volunteers who make every performance memorable. From Broadway hits to affordable local performances, there’s something for everyone year-round. We’ll also dive into the 2025–2026 Broadway Season, learn how shows are selected, and hear about the many ways the PAC makes the arts accessible and engaging for our community. 
 
Fox Cities Performing Arts Center
400 W. College Avenue 
920-730-3760

Fashion, Accessories & Community with Sugar Rushlow Boutique

Ready to elevate your look? This episode highlights Sugar Rushlow Boutique, a destination for stylish pieces in sizes XS–3X, plus accessories, permanent jewelry, ear piercing, and more. After moving to Downtown Appleton in October 2023, Sugar Rushlow has quickly become a local favorite. Owner Nicole Rocheleau and her son Rob share their journey, what inspires their fashion-forward approach, and how their boutique is helping customers feel confident and stylish every day.
 
Sugar Rushlow Boutique 
129 E. College Avenue 
920-364-9138
 

Become a DIY Master

You do not need to be creative to make beautiful things at Board & Brush. With a variety of projects, over 1,000 designs to choose from and guided instruction from their amazing team, you will walk out with something beautiful for your home. They strive to make it a bright, happy place with positive energy where you can escape and unwind and have fun. Learn more about how this works and how you can start crafting!
Board & Brush
109 N. Durkee Street
https://boardandbrush.com/appleton/

Building Big Futures at the Building for Kids

More than a place to play. The Building for Kids in Downtown Appleton is where curiosity grows, imaginations soar, and every visit is a new adventure. In this episode, we explore how ever-changing exhibits, events, and activities spark learning, build life skills, and bring generations together — all through the power of play. Casie and Oliver from the BFK team share how the museum inspires them every day and why its impact reaches far beyond fun. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or simply young at heart, you’ll discover why the Building for Kids has something for everyone — and why the magic of play matters more than ever.
 
The Building for Kids Children's Museum 
100 W. College Avenue
920-734-3226
https://www.buildingforkids.org/

The Art of Being "Little Known"

Every creator begins as a little known artist—often supported first by family and friends. The Little Known Art House was founded to give those emerging voices a platform to grow, connect, and be seen. In this episode, owner Jackie Sanders shares how art has shaped her journey and what inspired her to open this unique studio, designed to support and showcase rising artists from across the Midwest.
 
Little Known Art House
115 E. Washington Street
https://www.littleknownarthouse.com

One for the Books with The Book Store Appleton

This might look like a small shop—but don’t judge a book (or bookstore!) by its cover. With 4,800 square feet of books, this place is a reader’s dream come true. We chat with a fellow book lover and owner Kalan Bavnick about the great things The Book Store offers beyond their large selection of books including a trade-in program, new & used books, book clubs, rental options, special events and more!
 
The Book Store Appleton
801 W. College Avenue
920-734-8908
https://www.thebookstoreappleton.com/

Mile of Music: The Soundtrack of Downtown Appleton

What happens when you combine a vibrant, one-mile stretch of Downtown Appleton with 200+ up-and-coming artists performing FREE shows with live, 100% original music over just four days? You experience an unforgettable music-filled weekend with over 700 incredible shows! Join us as we go behind the scenes with two members of the Mile of Music team to talk about the history of the festival, the planning process and how you can help them get to Mile 100 and beyond.
 
Mile of Music Festival