entrepreneurs Archives - The Jackson Hole Connection

Episode 250 – Lets Talk Wyoming History on our Last Episode with Kylie Louise McCormick

By Michael Moeri | 07/13/2023 |

Kylie Louise McCormick is a Wyoming based historian who was born and raised in Casper. On our 250th and final episode, what better way to conclude our journey than by delving into the rich history of Wyoming and exploring the lives of its remarkable figures?

In this episode Kylie and Stephan explore Wyoming’s past, discussing topics such as the experiences of religious minorities, the women’s suffrage movement, the significance of figures like Esther Morris and Grace Raymond Hebard, and the boom and bust cycle of the state. Kylie shares her personal experiences growing up Jewish in Wyoming and how she found her passion for researching and sharing stories about Wyoming’s history. Stephan and Kylie also touch on the impact of jokes and the importance of teaching history in a way that fosters empathy and understanding. This final episode serves as a reminder to find joy, gratitude, and love in life and to engage in meaningful conversations with others.

Episode 248 – Finding Balance and Creative Outlets with Macye Maher

By Michael Moeri | 06/28/2023 |

Macye Maher is a mom, business owner, published author, and advocate for land preservation. She moved to Jackson in 1998 and has fully embraced mountain life. Macye and her husband Alex are the founders of Live Water Properties, and they are currently working on restoring a historic ranch in Wyoming.

The conversation starts with Macye sharing her adventurous tale of moving to Alaska with friends after high school. She then discusses her love for the outdoors and explains why she chose to move to Jackson in ’98. Macye and Stephan then delve into her book, “Fireworks and Fertility,” exploring the title’s representation of the emotional and explosive nature of both fireworks and fertility issues. Macye emphasizes the significance of embracing one’s identity as a writer. They also discuss Macye and Alex’s recent purchase of a ranch near Thermopolis, Wyoming, highlighting Macye’s commitment to restoring, preserving and enhancing the land.

Episode 246 – A Look at ‘Tuesdays in Jail’ and How Journaling Transforms Lives with Tina Welling

By Michael Moeri | 06/14/2023 |

Tina Welling is a local author who has been living in Jackson for 40 years. In this episode, she shares her journey of moving to Wyoming with her family from Ohio to be closer to nature and to become part of a tight-knit community. Tina talks about her experience running a gift shop in Snow King Resort for 25 years and how the off-seasons provided her with time to focus on her writing.

During the conversation, Tina discusses the sense of community she found in Jackson and how it influenced her writing. She describes her transition from writing novels to nonfiction and specifically mentions her book, ‘Writing Wild,’ which explores the connection between the natural world and personal creativity. Stephan asks Tina about her writing workshops with inmates at the Teton County Jail, and she shares her experiences and the insights she gained from working with them. Tina emphasizes the shared struggles between inmates and those on the outside, highlighting the importance of self-reflection and journaling as tools for self-discovery and personal growth.

The conversation also touches on Tina’s most recent book, ‘Tuesdays In Jail: What I Learned Teaching Journaling to Inmates.’ She explains how journaling can help individuals work through their issues and gain self-knowledge. Tina mentions that while she hasn’t focused much on promoting her book due to personal circumstances, she is grateful for winning the Nautilus Book Award in the memoir and personal journey category.

Episode 245 – Unveiling the Beauty Within with Tracey Garcia

By Michael Moeri | 06/07/2023 |

Tracey Garcia is a mom, entrepreneur, and a make-up artist. Growing up in a military family, Tracey’s life has been filled with travel and remarkable encounters with individuals from all walks of life. She has worked behind the scenes in the television industry, providing hair and makeup services for various shows. Additionally, Tracey has had the opportunity to work with influential figures in the political arena, contributing her craft as a make-up artist.

In this episode, Tracey shares anecdotes from her time working on television sets and emphasizes the importance of remaining neutral as an artist, regardless of the political affiliations of her clients. She highlights the ordinary nature of these public figures, revealing that they have lives outside the media spotlight.

The conversation then shifts to Tracey’s current work in Jackson Hole, where she has found success in focusing on weddings and photo shoots. She discusses the importance of self-promotion and reinvention in her industry, highlighting the abundance of opportunities available in the area.

Episode 244 – Pendergraft Outfitters: Carrying on a Family Legacy with Peter Linn

By Michael Moeri | 05/31/2023 |

Peter Linn is a father, husband, rancher, 5th generation local, and the owner of Pendergraft Outfitters.
In this episode, Peter shares his passion for his work and the joy he finds in waking up every day, excited to do what he loves. He talks about his long family history in the valley and what brought him back after living up in Alaska.

Stephan and Peter chat about some of the unique and amazing creatures he has seen while working in the backcountry, including wolverines, grizzly bears, wolves and cougars. He then goes on to discuss the challenges and adventures of expanding his operations to a ranch in Kinnear, Wyoming, where he is learning to farm alfalfa and grass. The conversation then delves into the various types of trips Peter offers, including horse-supported hiking trips and progressive travel. Peter then elaborates on Pendergraft Outfitter’s camp, which offers a more comfortable experience with wall tents and a cook tent.

Stephan and Peter also discuss the logistics of pack trips, including the importance of holding onto horses overnight. Peter shares his personal experiences of waking up to missing horses and emphasizes the need for horses to feel safe and secure in their surroundings.

This conversation offers a glimpse into the ranching and outfitting life, showcasing the remarkable adventures and obstacles encountered in the beautiful wilderness of the Tetons and the surrounding areas.