Rock Solid Community Podcast
Welcome to Rock Solid Community, the podcast that brings you the heart and soul of Rock County, Wisconsin! Join local businesswomen and community leaders Katie Myers and Kelsey Paasch as they spotlight the people, businesses, and organizations that make our area extraordinary. From Edgerton to Beloit and everywhere in between, we are all about celebrating the changemakers, nonprofits, and local businesses that strengthen our community. Whether you’re a Rock County resident or just curious about what makes our corner of Wisconsin so special, tune in to discover the stories that connect us all.
Episodes

Monday Dec 02, 2024
Monday Dec 02, 2024
In this episode, hosts Katie and Kelsey share the story behind their podcast, Rock Solid Community. They discuss what inspired them to start podcasting, the mission of their show, and how they aim to foster a strong community. If you've ever thought about launching your own podcast, Katie and Kelsey provide simple, actionable steps to help you get started. Whether you're curious about podcasting or looking for encouragement to take the leap, this episode is packed with valuable insights!
Check us out on Facebook!

Monday Nov 25, 2024
Monday Nov 25, 2024
In this episode, we sit down with Nate Burkart from the Janesville Performing Arts Center (JPAC) to explore the vital role the arts play in building community. Nate shares insights into how JPAC creates meaningful connections within the community through its programs, performances, and outreach initiatives. We also discuss the behind-the-scenes of running a performing arts center, the challenges and rewards of keeping the arts alive, and how JPAC continues to inspire creativity and collaboration.
Whether you’re a lover of the arts, curious about community engagement, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode offers something for everyone.
Topics Covered:
How JPAC brings people together through the arts.
The operational side of managing a performing arts center.
Stories of impact: how JPAC transforms lives in the community.
Upcoming events and ways to get involved with JPAC.
Links and Resources:
Learn more about JPAC: www.janesvillepac.org
Follow JPAC on social media: Facebook
Nathan@janesvillepac.org

Monday Nov 18, 2024
Monday Nov 18, 2024
In this episode, hosts Katie and Kelsey dive into why attending conferences can be a game-changer for personal and professional growth. They share their own experiences, offer practical tips for making the most out of any conference, and explain how these events can help you expand your network, gain fresh perspectives, and ignite new ideas. Whether you’re looking to level up your business or explore personal development, this episode will inspire you to take the leap.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The benefits of attending conferences for business and personal development.
How to choose the right conference for your goals.
Strategies for networking and building meaningful connections at events.
Tips for staying organized and maximizing your time during a conference.
Real-life examples of how conferences have impacted Katie and Kelsey’s journeys.
Connect with Us:
Follow us on Facebook
Share your favorite conference moments with us using Rocksolidcommunitypodcast
Subscribe and Review:Don’t miss out on future episodes—subscribe to Rock Solid Community Podcast wherever you listen! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and let us know how it inspired you.

Monday Nov 11, 2024
Monday Nov 11, 2024
In this episode, we sit down with Rick Mueller, owner of Jax Custom Printing, a Janesville-based business that has been a staple in the community for nearly 30 years. Rick shares the unique story of buying the business from his mother and turning it into a thriving company known for quality and reliability. With deep roots in Janesville, Rick is more than just a business owner—he’s a dedicated supporter of local nonprofits, lending his time and resources to give back to the community he loves.
What You'll Learn:
How Rick transitioned into ownership of Jax Custom Printing and continued its legacy
His approach to sustaining a successful business in a changing market
Insights on balancing business growth with community involvement
Rick’s passion for supporting Janesville nonprofits and how listeners can get involved
Tune in to hear Rick’s inspiring journey and gain valuable insights into the power of community-focused entrepreneurship!

Sunday Nov 03, 2024
Sunday Nov 03, 2024
In this episode, we sit down with Michelle Adkins from the Salvation Army to explore the incredible work this organization does for our community. From providing essential services to vulnerable individuals to creating programs that uplift and empower, Michelle shares the ways the Salvation Army positively impacts lives every day. She also dives into inspiring success stories that demonstrate the profound effects of community support and involvement. Whether you're interested in volunteering, donating, or learning more, this episode offers valuable insights into how you can make a difference with the Salvation Army.
Key Points Discussed:
Overview of the Salvation Army’s mission and core services.
Various ways the Salvation Army supports our community.
Inspiring stories of transformation and hope.
How community members can get involved, volunteer, or contribute.
To get involved or find out more about what the Salvation Army has to offer check out sarockcounty.org

Sunday Nov 03, 2024
Sunday Nov 03, 2024
In this inspiring episode, we dive into the extraordinary journey of Shawn Myers, a former felon who transformed his life to become a top executive and now dedicates his retirement to helping others do the same. Join us as Shawn shares his story of resilience, redemption, and the strategies that helped him reclaim his life and career after prison.
Episode Highlights:
Shawn's Background: Discover the challenges Shawn faced after prison and the turning point that motivated him to change.
Lessons in Resilience: Key mindset shifts that helped Shawn stay focused and driven, even when the odds were stacked against him.
Advice for Rebuilding: Tips and resources for former felons and anyone looking to restart or elevate their career.
Shawn’s Mission Today: How he’s using his experiences to inspire others on a similar path to redemption and success.
Whether you've faced similar challenges or are simply inspired by stories of transformation, this episode offers hope, motivation, and practical guidance for making the most of any second chance.
Connect with Shawn: Shawnemyers.net
Social Media: Shawn Myers

Thursday Oct 17, 2024
Thursday Oct 17, 2024
Welcome to Rock Solid Community, the podcast that brings you the heart and soul of Rock County, Wisconsin! Join local businesswomen and community leaders Katie Myers and Kelsey Paasch as they spotlight the people, businesses, and organizations that make our area extraordinary. From Edgerton to Beloit and everywhere in between, we are all about celebrating the changemakers, nonprofits, and local businesses that strengthen our community. Whether you’re a Rock County resident or just curious about what makes our corner of Wisconsin so special, tune in to discover the stories that connect us all.