121. Rural By Choice with Cory Hepola

This episode is about dreams, missions, storytelling, and how Cory Hepola combines all of those things into his life as a storyteller and documentarian and how he uses his gifts and skills to highlight small towns.    About Cory:   Cory Hepola is an Emmy Award Winning TV Anchor and Documentarian.    Currently, he serves as the Vice President of Communications, Growth & Strategy at The Brookshire Company where he helps businesses around the world reach their fullest potential through strategic connections, high-impact storytelling and inspiring purposeful partnerships.     A dynamic leader led by his core values and mission to empower others, Cory has earned two Emmy Awards for Outstanding TV Anchor at KARE 11, been named “100 People To Know” by Twin Cities Business Magazine as the creator & host of his own daily show on iconic WCCO Radio, developed and hosted the popular docuseries “Rural By Choice” and ignited a 3rd party Campaign for Governor of Minnesota.    Last year, Cory was honored by his alma mater, Concordia College, with the “Sent Forth Award” which is presented “to a young alumni who has made an impact early in their career, emphasizing service to others and demonstrating a strong vocational commitment.”   In this episode, we cover: Cory’s road from broadcast journalism to his current role The power of learning more about yourself and your own mission, and planting the right seeds Why he’s so passionate about rural America Why rural America isn’t what many people think it is How the way we communicate has changed, and why it matters Links and Resources Mentioned: Brookshire’s Community Venture Network: https://brookshireco.com/services/community-venture-network/ Rural By Choice: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuZ3BsRIR3ZIM83HKbgu-CYi_R60WwdHz Episode 112 with Erik Osberg: https://www.growingsmalltowns.org/post/episode112

Om Podcasten

The future of small towns doesn’t depend on us finding more people; we need to better engage the ones who are already there. Each week, join Rebecca Undem, small-town champion and rural entrepreneur, as she chats with people who are doing their part to grow their community. You’ll hear ideas and learn ways to better support your business community, create a sense of belonging for all, and foster a rich arts and culture scene in your small town. If you live in a small town, care deeply about your community, and share the belief that “if you’re not growing, you’re dying”, this is the podcast for you.