The Greeley Business Beat

S1E12: Warm Hugs

Warm Hugs has been a beloved part of downtown Greeley for more than 30 years, built on Suzanne Sereff’s family recipes, handcrafted mixes, and her lifelong love of giving meaningful gifts. What began as a small craft-show experiment has grown into a destination shop known for its scratch-made baking and soup mixes, unique boutique items, and warm, relationship-driven customer experience.
In this episode of Greeley Business Beat, Suzanne shares how her grandmother’s kitchen inspired the business, how her husband and daughter helped it grow, and why Greeley’s supportive community has been essential every step of the way. She also offers honest insight into small-business challenges and her best advice for new entrepreneurs: feel the fear and start anyway.
Learn more about Warm Hugs:
Website: www.warmhugsmixes.com
Facebook: /WarmHugsMixes
Instagram: @warmhugs_shop
Follow Visit Greeley for updates and future episodes:
Website: www.visitgreeley.com
Facebook: /VisitGreeley
Instagram: @visitgreeley
Don't miss upcoming episodes of the Greeley Business Beat Podcast. Subscribe now to stay connected to the people and places that make Greeley great.
The Greeley Business Beat Podcast is a production of the City of Greeley in collaboration with 1K Creative.

S1E11: The Ambry

The Ambry is a restored 1920s church that has become a creative hub for artists, entrepreneurs, and small businesses in Greeley. After purchasing the building without knowing its outdated zoning, owner Kelly Langley Cook and her family transformed it into a welcoming space focused on connection, collaboration, and community.
In this episode of Greeley Business Beat, Kelly shares how The Ambry came to life, the challenges and surprises along the way, and why supporting local businesses and creating space for people to thrive is at the heart of her work.
Learn more about The Ambry:
Website: www.theambrygreeley.com
Instagram: @theambrygreeley
Follow Visit Greeley for updates and future episodes:
Website: www.visitgreeley.com
Facebook: /VisitGreeley
Instagram: @visitgreeley
Don't miss upcoming episodes of the Greeley Business Beat Podcast. Subscribe now to stay connected to the people and places that make Greeley great.
The Greeley Business Beat Podcast is a production of the City of Greeley in collaboration with 1K Creative.

S1E10: Oak & Maple Waffles

Matt Estrin joins us for a third time in the studio to share how a family breakfast-and-nightcap ritual inspired Oak & Maple Whiskey Waffle Company. From music pastor to distiller to restaurateur, Matt talks about his journey from 477 Distilling to downtown Greeley’s newest brunch-and-whiskey spot, what it’s like to balance family and business, and how community support keeps his ventures thriving.
In this episode of Greeley Business Beat, we dive into the story behind Oak & Maple’s sweet-and-savory menu, the lessons learned from a few “bad waffle” experiments, and why Greeley’s people continue to inspire his entrepreneurial spirit.
Learn more about Oak & Maple Whiskey Waffle Company:
Website: oakandmaplewaffles.com
Instagram: @oakandmaplewaffles
Follow Visit Greeley for updates and future episodes:
Website: www.visitgreeley.com
Facebook: /VisitGreeley
Instagram: @visitgreeley
Don't miss upcoming episodes of the Greeley Business Beat Podcast. Subscribe now to stay connected to the people and places that make Greeley great.
The Greeley Business Beat Podcast is a production of the City of Greeley in collaboration with 1K Creative.

S1E9: Colorado Model Railroad Museum

Michelle Kempema, Executive Director of the Colorado Model Railroad Museum, joins us to share how a family outing turned into a passion for preserving and growing one of Greeley’s most unique attractions. From her daughter’s excitement during their first visit to stepping into leadership, Michelle reflects on the museum’s journey to becoming a nationally recognized destination.
In this episode of Greeley Business Beat, we talk about the immersive experience of the museum’s miniature world, the volunteers who keep the trains running, the playful stories and Easter eggs hidden throughout the layout, and what’s next as the museum looks to expand and inspire future generations.
Learn more about Colorado Model Railroad Museum:
Website: cmrm.org
Facebook: /ColoradoModelRailroadMuseum
Instagram: @comodelrrmuseum
Follow Visit Greeley for updates and future episodes:
Website: www.visitgreeley.com
Facebook: /VisitGreeley
Instagram: @visitgreeley
Don't miss upcoming episodes of the Greeley Business Beat Podcast. Subscribe now to stay connected to the people and places that make Greeley great.
The Greeley Business Beat Podcast is a production of the City of Greeley in collaboration with 1K Creative.

S1E8: Flourish Music Academy

Nicole Harwell, former owner of Flourish Music Academy, joins us to share how she grew her passion for piano into a thriving community music school in Greeley. From navigating the leap from teacher to business owner to building a team that helps students of all ages find confidence and joy in music, Nicole reflects on the lessons learned along the way.
In this episode of Greeley Business Beat, we talk about the challenges and rewards of running a music academy, the importance of supporting local musicians, and how music builds skills that last far beyond the practice room.
Learn more about Flourish Music Academy:
Website: flourishmusicacademy.com
Facebook: /flourishmusicacademy
Instagram: @flourishmusicacademy
Follow Visit Greeley for updates and future episodes:
Website: www.visitgreeley.com
Facebook: /VisitGreeley
Instagram: @visitgreeley
Don't miss upcoming episodes of the Greeley Business Beat Podcast. Subscribe now to stay connected to the people and places that make Greeley great.
The Greeley Business Beat Podcast is a production of the City of Greeley in collaboration with 1K Creative.

S1E7: The Cow Saloon

Jodie Redfern joins us to share the story behind The Cow Saloon and Eatery, a welcoming Greeley staple serving up hearty comfort food, community spirit, and a touch of western flair. What started as a new chapter in her family’s life quickly became a beloved gathering place known for its laid-back vibe and memorable meals.
In this episode of Greeley Business Beat, we talk with Jodie about how she and her family took a leap of faith to open The Cow, what makes their menu stand out, and the ways they’ve built lasting relationships with customers and staff alike. From Sunday brunch to themed events, The Cow is more than just a restaurant—it’s a place where stories are shared and connections are made. We also chat about supporting local, staying true to your roots, and what it takes to run a business with heart.
Whether you're a longtime regular or have yet to visit, this episode will give you a deeper appreciation for one of Greeley's go-to dining spots. Learn more about The Cow Saloon and Eatery:
Website: www.thecowgreeley.com
Facebook: /thecowgreeley
Instagram: @thecowgreeley
Follow Visit Greeley for updates and future episodes:
Website: www.visitgreeley.com
Facebook: /VisitGreeley
Instagram: @visitgreeley
Don't miss upcoming episodes of the Greeley Business Beat Podcast. Subscribe now to stay connected to the people and places that make Greeley great.
The Greeley Business Beat Podcast is a production of the City of Greeley in collaboration with 1K Creative.

S1E6: 477 Distilling

Back for round two, Matt Estrin—owner of 477 Distilling (and if you remember, the mind behind Hatchet House Co.)—joins us again on Greeley Business Beat to share the spirited story behind one of downtown’s most popular hangouts.
From distilling in his garage to running a full-scale tasting room with distribution across three states, Matt talks about the leap from pastor to distiller, the story behind the name “477,” and the creative process that fuels both his cocktails and company culture. We also get a taste of community support, tunnels under downtown, staff-led innovation, and yes—why you should never underestimate a drink called Both of These.
Learn more about 477 Distilling:
Website: www.477distilling.com
Facebook: /477distilling
Instagram: @477_distilling
Follow Visit Greeley for updates and future episodes:
Website: www.visitgreeley.com
Facebook: /VisitGreeley
Instagram: @visitgreeley
Don't miss upcoming episodes of the Greeley Business Beat Podcast. Subscribe now to stay connected to the people and places that make Greeley great.
The Greeley Business Beat Podcast is a production of the City of Greeley in collaboration with 1K Creative.

S1E5: Mariposa Plants & Flowers

Danielle DeVore joins us to share the story behind Mariposa Plants & Flowers, a longtime Greeley favorite known for its lush greenery, vibrant blooms, and strong community roots. From plant maintenance tech to owner, Danielle’s journey is one of growth—both personal and botanical.
In this episode of Greeley Business Beat, we dive into Danielle’s love of plants, her decision to purchase the shop she had helped build for decades, and the heartfelt support she’s received from her staff and the Greeley community. She also gives us a look inside Mariposa’s calm, green-filled space, where guests can explore local vendor goods, take hands-on classes, and even get help reviving their favorite houseplants. We also talk sustainability, women-owned business initiatives, and what it means to carry on a legacy while creating your own.
Whether you’re a plant lover or simply appreciate stories of local resilience, this one will brighten your day. Learn more about Mariposa Plants & Flowers:
Website: www.mariposaflowers.com
Facebook: /mariposaflowers
Instagram: @mariposaplantsflowers
Follow Visit Greeley for updates and future episodes:
Website: www.visitgreeley.com
Facebook: /VisitGreeley
Instagram: @visitgreeley
Don't miss upcoming episodes of the Greeley Business Beat Podcast. Subscribe now to stay connected to the people and places that make Greeley great.
The Greeley Business Beat Podcast is a production of the City of Greeley in collaboration with 1K Creative.

S1E4: Aunt Helen's

Meet Aimee Hutson, the woman behind Aunt Helen’s Café, a Greeley staple that serves up bold flavors with a side of snark. Inspired by her real-life Great Aunt Helen—a woman known for her sharp wit, fierce independence, and a no-nonsense approach to life—Aimee built a business that reflects that same personality.
In this episode of Greeley Business Beat, Aimee shares how a casual dinner conversation led to the creation of one of downtown Greeley’s favorite spots, the challenges of running a small business, and why she made the leap from education to entrepreneurship. She also talks about how Aunt Helen’s has evolved over time, how the pandemic pushed her business in unexpected new directions, and the deep-rooted community spirit that keeps Greeley thriving.
Come experience the essence of community at Aunt Helen's, where every cup of coffee serves a purpose beyond just taste. Swing by Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, or on weekends from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Learn more about Aunt Helen's:
Website: www.aunthelenscoffeehouse.com 
Facebook: /aunthelenscoffeehouse 
Instagram: @aunthelenscoffeehouse 
Follow Visit Greeley for updates and future episodes:
Website: www.visitgreeley.com
Facebook: /VisitGreeley
Instagram: @visitgreeley
Don't miss upcoming episodes of the Greeley Business Beat Podcast. Subscribe now to stay connected to the people and places that make Greeley great.
The Greeley Business Beat Podcast is a production of the City of Greeley in collaboration with 1K Creative.

S1E3: Colorado Cornhole Connection

In this episode of Greeley Business Beat, we sit down with Don Newvahner, the mastermind behind Colorado Cornhole Connection, to talk about how a simple woodworking hobby turned into a booming business. Don shares his journey from building cornhole boards in his garage to running a 12,000-square-foot cornhole and entertainment venue in Greeley—complete with a retail store, a bar, and a thriving community of cornhole enthusiasts.
Hear how he leaped corporate life into full-time entrepreneurship, growing his business into a national and international success. Plus, we dive into the science of cornhole—the best wood for boards, the evolution of cornhole bags, and the rise of D1 college scholarships for the sport.
Learn more about the Colorado Cornhole Connection:
Website: www.coloradocornholeconnection.com 
Facebook: /cocornhole 
Instagram: @coloradocornholeconnection 
Follow Visit Greeley for updates and future episodes:
Website: www.visitgreeley.com
Facebook: /VisitGreeley
Instagram: @visitgreeley
Don't miss upcoming episodes of the Greeley Business Beat Podcast. Subscribe now to stay connected to the people and places that make Greeley great.
The Greeley Business Beat Podcast is a production of the City of Greeley in collaboration with 1K Creative.