Executive Director of the Living Earth Center Laura Marsala joins us to talk about her work and the mission of the organization. The Living Earth Center provides access to land for local growers to grow produce of cultural significance that is otherwise unavailable. Along with providing space for folks to garden and grow crops they work to deliver food to organizations that deal with families facing hunger like the Backpack Food program and the Echo food shelf. Laura also lets us know about some of the programming and community building that happens through the organization from solstice celebrations to open mics and even hosting conversations about bike polo and vampire novels. You can find out more information at: https://www.livingearthcentermn.org/

Artists, Brothers and Business owners Alex and Justin Ek talk about their decision to close their joint business venture 108 Alchemy in Old Town Mankato. We learn about the challenges and lessons learned as well as well as covering some of the impacts the storefront has had on the Old Town landscape. The Brothers also share some insights into their own artistic philosophies and ideas as to where their creative energy might flow next.

Singer songwriter and multi instrumentalist Beret Finken joins us to talk about her journey as a musician, her upcoming album "Change with the Seasons" that is currently in the middle of a kickstarter campaign and her love for video game and theatre.

Illustrator and musician Kat Baumann joins us to talk about her work as a freelance artist. Kat just finished working on a four issue comic Ben Mortara which follows the archeological adventures of a globetrotting Professor Ben Mortara, we learn about her processes as an illustrator as well as some insights into the industry itself. Kat also talks about her work as a vocalist performing with Joe Tougas and the Associates as well as a troupe in the renaissance festival. You can follow Kat at the following ⁠katbaumann.com⁠ ⁠twitter.com/kat_baumann⁠ ⁠instagram.com/katbaumanncomics⁠ ⁠tumblr.com/katbaumann⁠

In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting the incredibly talented Josh Madson, a photographer, director, and cinematographer with a passion for community engagement. Join us as we explore Josh's latest project, set to launch as part of an upcoming festival right here in our own community. Josh will be offering free portrait sessions to the people of Mankato, capturing their unique personalities and stories through his lens. These captivating portraits will then be showcased at the renowned Coffee Hag, a local hub for creativity and community gathering. We delve into Josh's motivation behind this inspiring endeavor, uncovering the transformative power of art and its ability to foster connection and belonging within a community. Through his lens, Josh aims to highlight the diverse faces and stories that make Mankato such a vibrant place to live. During our conversation, we'll explore the creative process behind capturing these portraits, Josh's approach to storytelling through photography, and the impact he hopes to achieve through this project. We'll also touch on the role of art in fostering community engagement and the importance of showcasing local talent. Whether you're a photography enthusiast, an art lover, or simply someone passionate about building a stronger community, this episode of the TF Cast is not to be missed. Join us as we sit down with Josh Madson and explore the intersection of art, community, and the power of a single portrait. Get ready to be inspired and discover the beauty that lies within our own backyard. http://www.joshmadson.com/

Vocalist Cara Lucille joins us to talk about her experience in the 2022 Minnesota Original Music Festival Band Challenge as well as her role as an organizer in the upcoming event this year. The 48 hour band challenge drafts participants into teams tasked with preforming 2 covers and 1 original song in front of a panel of judges for a chance to perform on the main stage at the MNOMF along with other prizes. You can find more information about the band challenge and performances at mnomf.com