BRAVA March April 2024

Jevon Diming, founder, Pierre Outreach Safe House

Favorites of Mine & Your Choice

Jennifer Higdon, Loco

Dmitri Kabalevsky, Cello Concerto No. 2 in C minor, Op. 77

Antonín Dvořák, Symphony No. 9, Op. 95 “From the New World”

“An extraordinarily moving performance where time, very briefly, seemed to stand still.”

JOHN DEMAIN, Conductor STEVEN ISSERLIS, Cello

O u r subscribers voted this su m m e and the results are in! I wanted a popular symphonic work to be featured in the second half of these concerts, and Dvořák’s New World Symphony as the winner. The first half of the concert opens with a fun work titled Loco by Jennifer Higdon, followed by the return of another favorite artist of mine, Steven Isserlis who has enjoyed a long and distinguished career as one of the world’s foremost cellists. He will perform Kabalevsky’s second cello concerto, a premiere for the MSO.

– John DeMain, Music Director

madisonsymphony.org/favorites

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Experience that feeling…

Stylish selections don’t have to come with upsetting costs. Low prices don’t need to mean boring options. At Nonn’s we have both—big-box prices boutique selections.

KITCHEN. BATH. FLOORING. DELIGHT.

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MONEY SMARTS

BY KIM SPONEM

I feel like I should have started saving earlier. What can I do?

While it is never too early to save, it’s always better to start saving than to keep worrying about not saving in the past. Regular saving, no matter how small, feels good. It builds confidence and reduces stress. The key is taking an action.

Your question does not include your age, but knowing that a top concern for many women is financial security in retirement, and having heard from so many people over the years that they wish they had started saving earlier for that, let’s start there.

The “sooner the better” in savings gives you more of the power of compound interest. You earn interest on what you deposited and on the interest you’ve accumulated. It’s powerful, and too many underestimate it.

In case some of you think retirement is too far off to plan for, it’s not. In all my years in this business, I still haven’t heard a person say they wish they had saved less for retirement when they were younger. Whether you are a young reader or not, there are some things to know about saving.

You’ve heard information is power, and that is true with your finances. One of the ways we’ve made it easier to get a handle on saving is through our free calculators on the Money Smarts page at SummitCreditUnion.com. Among other calculators, you’ll find several to help you make savings decisions:

• Savings Calculators that help you plan savings. You can plug in what you currently save and other variables and find out the impact you’d

have if you saved more, what your savings may be worth in the future, and when you can expect to reach a savings goal.

• Retirement Calculators that help you compare traditional or Roth 401(k)s, determine how long your retirement savings could last, estimate Social Security benefits and more.

• Budgeting Calculators, including one that helps you consider savings in relation to paying off debt.

I bring up these tools because they can provide a starting point for questions and conversations and actions around saving. When reading articles about saving, it always comes down to the following:

1) If you have a 401(k) or anything similar, contribute to it. Increase the percentage every year until you achieve the maximum contribution.

2) Open an IRA and contribute to it regularly or mark your calendar for a once-a-year contribution. Even a small amount will add up. I add to mine prior to April 15 every year.

3) When you accumulate money in your savings account, put some of it in a certificate of deposit to earn more. A certificate is safe for protecting your principal.

4) Once you have done the top three and you have more money to contribute, work with an advisor to see what products might make sense for you. Summit Financial Advisors would be happy to help. 5) The key in gaining wealth is to contribute regularly to whatever savings vehicle you choose.

Taking action is key. It all adds up to a more secure future. If you belong to a credit union, you are already partnered with an organization that exists for your financial well-being. Bring your questions in and we will assist. Whatever your starting point is, you will find you are NOT alone in your savings experience and there are options for you.

When it comes to money, it’s not about what you should have done. It’s about starting the conversation and taking actions now.

Kim Sponem is CEO & President, since 2002, of Summit Credit Union, a $6.9 billion, member-owned financial cooperative with more than 255,500 members. Kim has a passion for empowering people to improve their financial well-being for a richer life.

Ask Kim your money questions at MoneySmarts@SummitCreditUnion.com.

THE CYCLE OF CHANGE

After a few 60-degree days in February, it’s hard not to think about spring. Inevitably, the temperatures will dip back down for a while, but it’s always invigorating to feel a taste of what’s to come.

The theme of transformation and renewal is apt for this issue. The women in our “Pain Into Purpose” feature (P. 55) faced life-altering setbacks and found the courage to carry on. It was important that the women we talked to had encountered a variety of life-changing situations — cancer, failure, loss and trauma — so they could speak to the spectrum of emotions these challenges brought.

It was emotional for me to work on this feature as well. I interviewed Kristin Keir, whose partner, Dax Bakken, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 51, leaving behind the couple’s 8-year-old daughter, Maeve, and two teenage sons from a prior relationship. Keir and I talked about loss, grief and how she and Maeve honor Bakken in their daily lives. These types of articles not only make you stop and sit with your emotions for a while, but they illuminate the stumbling blocks and triumphs many women face, so that we can all relate to one another a little better.

While we’re talking about rejuvenation, does your closet or home need an update? Four years ago, we published a secondhand shopping guide, and it was wildly successful. In fact, it’s been one of the top ten web

AN ENLIGHTENING CONFERENCE

Afra Smith, who was featured in our “Money Matters” article (as well as a 2024 Woman to Watch), is holding her second annual Wealth Literacy Conference on April 13. Learn more at themelaninproject2053.com.

THRIFTY STOPS

I recently visited secondhand shop Yada Fair Trade & Resale

Their mission is to help local human trafficking survivors. I’m also excited to stop by The Bounty , an artfullycurated vintage destination.

articles on bravamagazine.com for three years running! Finding a great deal and giving an upcycled item a new life in your home or wardrobe is always fantastic. Check out our new guide starting on P. 42.

While it’s great to save money if you’re thrifting, don’t forget to check in on your finances. April is U.S. National Financial Literacy Awareness Month, and in our Money Issue, we discuss ways you can manage your money more effectively. This fidelity.com stat emphasizes why this is particularly important if you’re in an opposite-sex partnership (though it holds true for any partnership): On average, women live five years longer than men, and 81% of people ages 85 and older are women. At some point, it’s likely you’ll be managing your own finances (if you’re not already).

While we advocate for women to always keep close track of their finances, there’s no shame if you’re not there yet. Our “Money Matters” feature shares commonly-asked money questions (P. 27). We also talked to local influencers on how they make money (P. 9), and the cost of home remodeling projects (P. 24).

Enjoy this issue!

Shayna Mace Editorial Director @shaynamace

CELEBRATE WITH US

Don’t forget to RSVP for our 2024 Women to Watch celebration taking place on April 16! We always have so much fun at this event. Join us for an evening of networking, refreshments and recognizing our honorees. Register at bravamagazine.com/w2w.

BUSINESS

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CONTRIBUTORS

Julie Barber, Nicole C.W. Gruter, Kristine Hansen, Nicole Hansen, Shalicia Johnson, Nikki Kallio, Maura Keller, Hillary Schave, Katrina Simyab, Jessica Steinhoff, Sue Sveum, Katie Vaughn, Bobby Walker, Amanda N. Wegner, Shanna Wolf

BRAVA Magazine is a publication of Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc. Gary E. Nei, Chairman, William Turner, President.

This issue or any part thereof may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved. ©2024

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BRAVA (ISSN 1934-4317) MARCH/APRIL 2024, Volume 25, Number 02, is published bimonthly (six times a year) by Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc. Periodicals postage paid at 3902 Milwaukee St., Madison WI 53714 and additional offices. Postmaster send address changes to: BRAVA Magazine, 951 Kimball Ln., Ste. 122, Verona WI 53593-1786.

NIKKI KALLIO

Nikki is a writer who worked as a journalist for daily newspapers on both coasts before returning home to Wisconsin, and is also a former associate editor of a business magazine. In this issue, Nikki wrote about trendy paint colors (P. 21), the cost of home remodeling projects (P. 24) and a profile in “Pain Into Purpose” (P. 56). In 2023, her short fiction collection, “Finding the Bones,” was published by Cornerstone Press. She travels often, whether it’s overseas or to a nearby state park.

JESSICA STEINHOFF

Jessica spent the first half of her career as an editor at Madison’s Isthmus newspaper and a New York City home décor magazine. Now, Jessica owns a psychotherapy practice that helps people process trauma through the arts. As an author, she is drawn to stories about social justice, mental health and the arts. In this issue, she contributed to “Pain Into Purpose” (P. 60) and our arts and entertainment coverage (P. 76).

BOBBY WALKER

Bobby is a Madison-based psychotherapist and certified sex therapist specializing in treating sex and relationship issues, as well as anxiety and depression in high-functioning professionals. Bobby lent her expertise in this issue’s Wellbeing department (P. 13). Outside of sessions, Bobby is reading, writing, building community and thinking and talking fervently about sex, pleasure, culture and the psyche.

THE BUSINESS OF INFLUENCING

Becoming an influencer is intriguing. But how do they make money?

BY KATRINA SIMYAB

With one study showing that 57% of Gen Zers would pursue a career as an influencer if given the opportunity, chasing internet fame is more popular than ever. Less widely understood is how to monetize influencing, which involves posting content on various social media platforms to generate revenue.

Chloe Homan

Mercury Stardust, also known as The Trans Handy Ma’am (and 2023 BRAVA Woman to Watch), has built a large community as a virtual maintenance technician, speaker and author. When it comes to making a career out of influencing, she says, “there are such a boatload of paths. It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure career for content creators.”

GETTING PAID TO PURCHASE

One common revenue generator for influencers is earning commissions from affiliate links. First, an influencer will partner up or register with a company’s affiliate program. By promoting links to items (which can be anything — clothing, home goods and more), “you can get paid on the product that people purchase [through your links],” explains Chloe Homan, content creator and founder of Frizz and Frillzz and Curlfriend Collective.

It’s worth noting these commissions can start at 1% per item sold and go up from there, depending on the influencer’s reach and the product. But if the influencer has a

solid reach and gets enough clicks, those affiliate links can add up to much more. This can be a great introduction to monetization for aspiring content creators and influencers who don’t have a large following.

Popular affiliate programs include LTK, the TikTok Shop or through Amazon.

IT’S ALL ABOUT BRANDING

Paid partnerships are another way influencers make money. Brands offer a fee in exchange for a content creator to post promotional videos or images on their platform.

“ If you can create good quality content … there are ways to get paid and potentially make a full-time living for those with a smaller following or no following at all.

— Chloe Homan ”

A long-term paid partnership with Ulta Beauty Collective as well as a steady stream of income from multiple sources led Kelsie Corbett of Kelsie Kristine to finally take the leap into full-time influencing. Starting off as a beauty influencer, Corbett shifted her focus to mom-friendly, affordable fashion content.

“It was a 12-month collaboration. I had a nice chunk [of money] coming in, and I was like ‘all right, I can do this.’”

Another type of partnership called user-generated content has also risen in popularity, but is typically less profitable. Creators don’t make content to post on their own platforms, but instead create ad content for a brand or for their social media accounts.

“If you can create good quality content … there are ways to get paid and potentially make a full-time living for those with a smaller following or no following at all,” says Homan.

BIGGER DEALS, MORE MONEY

If an influencer cultivates a strong following, opportunities for larger deals can open up.

At the start of her career, Stardust tried brand sponsorships and affiliate links to support her growing platform, but quickly realized “that wasn’t for me,” she says. Wanting to find something that better fit her personality and passions, she started booking speaking engagements.

“I talked about my journey as a queer kid in northern Wisconsin,” she explains.

Stardust has been able to turn her platform into a thriving company with contract, part-time and full-time employees. In addition to her speaking engagements, she sells branded merchandise, released a book (her first book, “Safe and Sound: A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair,” was a New York Times Bestseller) and has monthly subscribers on Patreon, an exclusive content subscription platform.

Homan has cultivated success with 100-plus brand partnerships over the years (Ulta, Walgreens, Target, Briogeo, among others) and her own line of silk hair accessories called Curlfriend Collective.

WHAT TO CONSIDER

While it may seem easy and glamorous, being a full-time influencer has its challenges.

Most people don’t realize the amount of time and work that goes into creating even short pieces of quality content, such as Instagram Reels and TikTok videos. There’s a constant need to stay up to date on ever-changing platform features and new social media apps (such as when TikTok emerged within the last few years). And, churning out large volumes of content can be exhausting.

“I’ve done a really good job of setting some boundaries over the past couple of years,” says Corbett, who tries to stick with a limit of two hours on Instagram per day. I also have quiet mode on at night,” she says.

Getting paid by brands can also take time. Affiliate commissions can take weeks to get deposited, and some brand deals may not pay out for several months after signing a contract.

“Creators don’t get paid for a long time. It can definitely be difficult,” says Homan. “Every month you don’t necessarily know what’s coming in.”

As an influencer, it’s important to be passionate about what you’re doing, which Stardust says she is.

“It’s so detrimental to your mental health to view this like it’s all about marketing and branding. We have to maintain the humanness of this,” she says. “It really is about finding out what makes you not want to burn out. I want to do this for as long as possible.”

Katrina Simyab is a Madison-based freelance writer, content creator and digital marketing professional.

MEET THE INFLUENCERS

Mercury Stardust @mercurystardusttopz, mercurystardust.com

Instagram: 855K followers

TikTok: 2.5M followers

YouTube: 207K subscribers

Kelsie Kristine Corbett @kelsiekristine, kelsiekristine.com

Instagram: 116K followers

TikTok: 27.6K followers

Pinterest: 641.7K monthly views

Chloe Homan @frizzandfrillzz, frizzandfrillzz.com & curlfriendcollective.com

Instagram: 194K followers

TikTok: 294.1K followers

YouTube: 60.2K subscribers

or

LET’S TALK ABOUT SEX

A sex therapist answers the most commonly asked questions she gets.

BY BOBBY WALKER

When I’m at a party or social event and I tell people I’m a sex therapist, it’s only a matter of time before someone corners me to ask a sex-related question. Call me a workaholic, but I always welcome these conversations, even off the clock.

Despite sex seeming like it’s all around us in the media, so many people are living in silence, confusion and shame about one of life’s greatest pleasures. Having open and honest conversations about sex can help us break out of the scripts and habits that limit our sexual potential. Here are some common issues I get asked about.

My partner and I are so busy — it feels like we’re too tired and neither of us want to have sex. In the beginning, we were always in the mood. Why is it different now? How do we maintain a lasting sexual connection?

Contrary to what we see in TV and movies, good sex doesn’t usually happen spontaneously. The urge doesn’t hit us out of nowhere — especially when we’re stressed and rushing from one thing to the next. Fulfilling, playful sex lives with our long-term partners requires effort, open communication and scheduling.

Many of my clients relate, saying: “But we were just as busy in the beginning of our relationship, and we had tons of passionate sex without having to schedule it.” In the beginning you were scheduling sex, but you called it

“planning a date.” You timed your Brazilian waxes, wore fancy underwear, made thoughtful dinner reservations and sent flirty texts in anticipation of your next rendezvous. The spontaneous passion you felt in the early days was a byproduct of intentionally setting the mood and prioritizing your sexual connection.

“Fulfilling,

playful sex lives with our long-term partners requires effort, open communication and scheduling.

— Bobby Walker ”

Moving forward, ritualize your intimacy. Schedule a weekly date night. Make it somewhere new each time (novelty is good for eroticism!) where you show up fully present and focused on your relationship. You might be tempted to cancel these date nights if you’re having a bad day or aren’t feeling sexy or “in the mood.” The point isn’t to arrive already in the mood, or even to have sex — the point is to connect with your partner (giving compliments, kissing with tongue, showing them appreciation) and to talk openly about your sex life. Try sharing fantasies, your favorite sexual memory together and getting specific about your turn-ons. Do this, and you’ll cultivate an erotic

SHOP LOCAL

COOL GIRL NAILS WITHOUT THE TOXINS

Imagine coming to a nail salon that smells clean, looks clean, uses clean tools and offers high-performance (and non-toxic) products! That is Pure Nails. We’d love to meet you! Spin the wheel on our website to win a free gift to use at your first visit.

SHOP LOCAL. SHOP INDEPENDENT.

We’re more than mystery! Shop our new releases, fiction, non-fiction, poetry, science fiction and fantasy, horror, rom-com, children’s and of course, mystery books. We also have a selection of puzzles and other bookish items that make perfect gifts for the book lover in your life.

PURE NAILS

556 Junction Rd. Madison, WI 53717 purenailsmadison.com

SPRING FRESH

As spring dawns, we welcome you to enjoy our carefully curated candles. Based in the city’s beautiful East Side, each hand-poured candle brings together quality soy wax and enticing fragrances. Experience the perfect fusion of luxury and sustainability with our eco-friendly candles. Visit wiscohomegoods.com for a chance to win a $50 gift card!

Wisco Home Goods

4664 Cottage Grove Rd. Madison, WI 53716

608.219.1216

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MYSTERY TO ME BOOKS

1863 Monroe St. Madison, WI 53711 mysterytomebooks.com

TIME FOR A ROOM REFRESH?

The interior designers at Linen & Clove would love to help refresh that room that you’ve been meaning to get to! From paint consultations to new décor or furniture, room layout recommendations to full home remodels, we would be honored to work with you to design the space that you’ve been dreaming about. Visit our website to get started today.

LINEN & CLOVE

606 W Verona Ave. Verona, WI 53593 linenandclove.com

BLOSSOMING BAUBLES

Botanical-inspired jewelry blooms in Olbrich’s Gift Shop, capturing nature’s beauty in necklaces, earrings, bracelets and more. Open daily! All proceeds directly benefit the Gardens. Shown above: pressed botanical resin necklaces by Cameoko.

OLBRICH BOTANICAL GARDENS

3330 Atwood Ave. Madison, WI 53704

608.246.4550

olbrich.org

TRY BARRE3 FOR FREE

barre3 is celebrating 10 years in Madison. Your first class is always free! Come see why our efficient, effective, full-body workout will leave you feeling balanced and strong. We can’t wait to meet you!

mindset that is arousing and exciting, out of which your desire for sex can emerge.

My partner loves dirty talk and so do I, but I always feel awkward whenever I try to be more vocal. How do I get past this?

Dirty talk is less about what you say, and more about how you say it. Take the words lorem ipsum : on their own, they’re unsexy, mundane words. But what if you whispered them slowly? Or dragged out each syllable, enunciating every letter? You could pause for five seconds between each word, or repeat one or both words. They sound a lot dirtier now, don’t they?

Proximity also matters, so try to get close to your partner’s face or ear — you don’t want to say something sexy and your partner doesn’t hear it.

When it comes to what to say, focus on narrating the sex you’re having out loud. Sex columnist Dan Savage provides a phenomenal template for dirty talk: tell the person what you’re doing, what you’re going to do and what you did. There is some amount of awkwardness you’ll have to tolerate, until you get more practice!

I faked my orgasms at the beginning of my relationship. Now my partner thinks I can orgasm just from penetration. What should I do?

First, faking orgasms is extremely common. Reasons for faking range anywhere from not knowing how to orgasm, to feeling embarrassed about how “long” it takes. Most of us are socialized into having performative sex, where our sole focus is on our partner’s pleasure. For years, I faked orgasms thinking it would make my partners feel like good lovers. Ultimately, this cost me my own pleasure, and now I am all for supporting people in having authentic, mutually-fulfilling sex.

Your first option is to be completely honest with your partner. In a neutral time and space (i.e., outside the bedroom), start by sharing what you love about your sex life. Then share that you have been faking your orgasms and why, and let them know you’re committed to experiencing authentic pleasure in your relationship. You can say you’re on a pleasure journey, and you’d like them to join you in discovering what helps you orgasm.

BARRE3

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Your second option is to not tell your partner, but commit to no longer faking. Instead, focus on asking for what gives you the most pleasure. Say you’d like to play around with how you orgasm, and then let yourself enjoy the experience. If you didn’t orgasm, say you didn’t, without putting pressure on yourself or your partner to achieve one.

Bobby Walker, LCSW, is a licensed psychotherapist and certified sex therapist based in Madison.

Getting Ready for Baby

A UnityPoint Health – Meriter postpartum nurse shares advice on what to pack in your hospital bag.

Whether you’re a first-time parent or already have a little one, if you’re preparing to have a baby, it’s likely you’ll be gathering a bag of essentials to bring to the hospital for you and baby. UnityPoint Health – Meriter postpartum nurse (and soon-to-be fourth time birthing parent) Miranda Pickett shares what she plans to include in her bag as she heads to the delivery room.

For the birthing parent:

• Toiletries (whatever you would use on an overnight trip)

• Slippers and socks (these are great to slip on if your feet are swollen from pregnancy/birth)

• Pajamas and a robe

• Nursing or pumping bras

• Nursing tank tops

• Comfortable clothing to go home in

• Phone charger with a long cord (outlets can sometimes be a good distance from the bed)

• Any snacks or beverages you’ll want for your stay

For baby:

• Car seat

• Breastfeeding pillow (Pickett recommends one with a firmer side)

• Portable sound machine to soothe

baby to sleep (an app on your phone works great too)

• Socks and booties for going home (socks can double as mittens as well)

• Baby nail file

• Swaddle and hat

• Different sized clothing (newborn and a bit larger, depending on how big your baby is after birth) and clothing of different weights (so you can be prepared for the sometimes unpredictable Midwest weather)

What UnityPoint Health – Meriter can provide:

•Basic toiletries (toothbrushes, toothpaste and necessities you may have forgotten)

• Hair bonnets, combs and hair oils

• Chapstick

• Baby essentials (diapers, wipes, pacifiers, baby soap and Vaseline for circumcisions)

• Feminine postpartum care products (pads and hygiene products)

Nice-to-haves (but not essential):

• Bluetooth speaker and your favorite playlists

• Diffuser (to give the room a calming atmosphere)

• Portable fan

• Pillows and bedding from home for extra comfort

• Books, a tablet, a laptop and headphones

It’s also important to bring your ID, insurance cards and a copy of your birth plan (if you have something specific in mind) to share with your health care providers at the birthing center.

You’ll want to start thinking about packing your bag around the 36- to 37-week mark, just in case you go into labor before your due date. It’s okay to throw in some essentials (like your toothbrush) at the last minute, but you’ll want your bag mostly ready to grab and go.

UnityPoint Health – Meriter is the busiest birthing center in Wisconsin and has been helping families bring their little ones into the world for 120 years. In 2023, UnityPoint Health –Meriter saw over 5,000 births.

To learn more about UnityPoint Health – Meriter’s birthing center, pregnancy and newborn care, or to take a virtual tour of our birthing center, visit unitypoint.org/madison/maternity.aspx.

SHOP THE LOOK

THE CREATIVE AT THE CORNER

BY SHAYNA MACE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNA WOLF

Natalie Bass has always been a creative. She started her own clothing line, orangyporangy, back in 2005 and sold her tops and skirts at the Dane County Farmers’ Market and at regional maker’s markets. In 2010, she opened her own retail shop called Zip-Dang, where she could sell her clothing in addition to items by other makers in the area and beyond.

Named after a “weird phrase” her fatherin-law used, the shop reflects Bass’s quirky sensibilities and has the tagline “purveyors of the un-mass-produced unusual.” It has a comfortable, welcoming vibe, and you’ll probably walk out with something cool (I did).

Find T-shirts, jewelry, home décor, prints, candles and more. Bass has always carried her husband Mike’s work, including photography and Madison-centric T-shirt designs and prints. He’s recently added folklore-themed items to his line, which she notes have been popular.

“I consider this shop independent, interesting, intriguing and different. I’ve made a lot of friends over the years here. We have an awesome community that really supports us,” says Bass. 2636 Monroe St., zip-dang.com

Bass’s husband, Mike, is a writer and illustrator, and his folklore-themed prints are a hit at the shop. $20

and

You don’t need to be a kid to love this pink dino vase. $28

These silver-plated

vintage Lucite bead earrings were crafted by Bass. $28

Bass designs and screen-prints her own T-shirts for the shop. $28

This gorgeous leather keychain is a cute way to hold your keys. $18

These funky Lucite earrings are by an Australian artist. $52

INVESTING IN A BETTER WORLD

Consider socially responsible investing to further your impact.

BY AMANDA N. WEGNER

In a world where money talks, investing in companies and organizations helping to make the world a better place can have a powerful impact. Enter socially responsible investing, or SRI.

SRI is a type of investing that goes beyond traditional financial considerations, allowing individuals to invest in companies that prioritize ethical, environmental and social responsibilities, or, investing profits for positive social impact.

“Socially responsible investing adopts an exclusionary strategy, selectively avoiding companies based on specific criteria aligned with ethical principles,” says Christine Sperry, CFP ®, a Certified Financial Planner™ and trust officer at Lake Ridge Bank. This type of investing reflects “the growing trend of investors seeking to align their financial goals with environmental and social considerations that they find to be important.”

SRI may encompass investing in a Certified B Corporation (or B Corp for short), a for-profit company that has voluntarily met high social and environmental standards. One such publicly traded B Corp is eyewear company Warby Parker, which has distributed more than 10 million pairs of eyeglasses to people in need.

SRI investing is an opportunity to make investments that reflect your values. If you care for the environment, you might invest in a publicly traded wind or solar company. If you care about supporting the advancement of women, people of color and other marginalized groups, you might

invest in companies run by such individuals. There are also exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and mutual funds available that specifically target sustainable investing.

“ SRI investments specifically target companies dedicated to making positive contributions to the environment and society, thus creating a positive cycle of beneficial effects.

— Christine Sperry ”

Yet another SRI opportunity is community investing, where your invested dollars support community organizations seeking funds to affect positive change. For instance, Madison-based Forward Community Investments converts community investments into low-interest loans for highimpact community projects in Wisconsin. As the initial loan is repaid, the money and its interest are recycled into loans for other organizations, and investors earn a financial return on their investment.

Sperry says that the advantage of SRI is the ability to create a deep, meaningful connection between investors and their investment portfolios.

“SRI investments specifically target companies dedicated to making positive contributions to the environment and society, thus creating a positive cycle of beneficial effects,” says Sperry. “For instance, clients who invest in SRIs feel good knowing that their investments are helping to create positive change for causes they are passionate about and companies can continue their work in making those positive changes a reality.”

Despite their socially responsible nature, Sperry cautions that, as with all investments, risk is involved, and investors need to research the SRI companies or funds they wish to invest in. Here are some questions to consider:

• What is the company’s or fund’s definition of social responsibility?

• Does the company’s or fund’s definition of social responsibility align with your beliefs?

• Is the company or fund transparent in its operations and decisionmaking processes?

• What is the track record of the company or fund in terms of social responsibility and financial performance?

SRI investing is not one-and-done; it is essential to continue monitoring and researching your investments.

“Staying up on current news with the SRI company or companies you are invested in helps maintain a consistent alignment between the investment and your values and goals,” says Sperry.

Amanda N. Wegner is a local freelance writer, and communications and marketing professional.

THERE IS NO ONE PATH TO ACHIEVING SUCCESS

By Sandy Botcher, Managing Partner of Northwestern Mutual Southern Wisconsin

Weread a lot about the financial services industry and how to succeed in what has traditionally been a maledominated field. What we don’t hear about as often, though, are the many avenues one can go down to pursue a career in the financial services industry. Too often we think our careers will take a linear path. For some, that is true. But for many, like me, the road to success was anything but straight.

I started my career out teaching junior high school, but after two years, decided to attend law school. After practicing in large firms for over a decade, I then made the leap to leave private practice and join Northwestern Mutual’s law department. Given my background and training as a lawyer, the natural path to advancement was to lead a practice team and dream big about becoming general counsel.

Instead, I left law to run an internal audit department, and from there headed up the disability income product line. Then my career took a left turn when I was asked to run the company’s downtown campus expansion. When that project ended, I led the teams that supported our distribution system to recruit, develop and compensate advisors. As part of that work, I lead the

women’s initiative, designed to help attract, grow and keep more women in our system. Three years ago, I was honored to be named managing partner of Northwestern Mutual Southern Wisconsin here in Middleton, Wisconsin.

I have had a remarkable journey with this company, but it certainly isn’t one that I would have scripted for myself when I joined the company. As I reflect on this journey, there are a few key pieces of advice I got as I was creating my own path.

First, focus on what you bring to the table, not on what you don’t. When I first left the practice of law (which was my background), I confess I focused too much on what I was lacking instead of all the experiences, skills and strengths that would translate into my new role. Others questioned why I got the role, given my experience and education. My mentor at the time was clear on the need for me to be my own best champion. That meant staying focused on what I had accomplished, the skills it took to get there and why they set me up for success in my new role. Every time I take on a new opportunity, I assess the situation to get myself ready, focused and on the offense.

Get clear on your values and passions. Understanding what motivates and inspires you is a crucial part of building a fulfilling career. By asking yourself fundamental questions such as, “what are my non-negotiables?” and, “what do I enjoy doing?” you can establish a sense of direction when faced with tough decisions about your career. Once you’re clear on your values and passions, they can serve as your guide, steering you towards the right opportunities.

Take calculated risks. Looking back, it is clear to me that I would not be serving as a managing partner at Northwestern Mutual if it weren’t for my willingness to embrace change and actively pursue opportunities that aligned with my unique skillset. I believe that for many, especially women aiming to advance in their careers, recognizing the power of calculated risks is crucial. Taking calculated risks is not just a strategy — it’s a mindset that can propel you forward in your career and produce leaders in the workforce.

I have had a crazy and incredible journey throughout my career, including many roles that seem to have no natural connection. But each new opportunity taught me something new about myself and sharpened my unique skillset to get me where I am today. There truly is no one path to success. It is what you bring to the table, your values, passions and willingness to take calculated risks that will become the throughline of your unique career narrative.

Disclosure: Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) (life and disability Insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Sandra Botcher is a General Agent of NM. Managing Partners are not in legal partnership with each other, NM, or its subsidiaries. Not all Northwestern Mutual representatives are advisors. Only those representatives with “Advisor” in their title or who otherwise disclose their status as an advisor of NMWMC are credentialed as NMWMC representatives to provide investment advisory services.

Sandy Botcher

CAPTURING COLOR

The best color pairings to use in interiors right now.

BY NIKKI KALLIO

After several years of having the same color on your walls, you might get the urge to change it up. Or, maybe that hot hue from years ago now feels dated. Giving your walls a refresh with a trending color can help brighten your space and mood, say Madison-area interior designers.

WHAT’S TRENDING

A few up-and-coming color trends mix in well with timeless and classic décor, says Shannon Figaro of Fig Interiors.

One trend is tone-on-tone neutrals, in which the same paint color is used on walls, trim and doors, but with different finish, Figaro says.

“That’s a really beautiful way to incorporate a neutral color. And we’re seeing a lot of warm neutrals, so the trends are definitely going toward warmer colors overall.”

Deb Corning of DC Interiors & Renovations says soft black — which technically can range from a cooler dark gray to a warmer, almost-brown, building on tones of blue or green — has recently emerged as a popular neutral. She also notes that using a soft black tone can be a chic way to update a room with gray walls, which was trendy a few years ago. Complementary colors to soft black hues include sky blue, olive green and peach.

POPS OF PERSONALITY

Neutraltones throughout a room allow you to easily pull in accent colors via soft furnishings. Think: accessories, rugs or curtains, Figaro says.

“You can definitely use warm, neutral colors as your base and then really bring in some personality with color [in] the softer elements in the room,” she says.

Blue shades are a good accent choice, Figaro says. Additionally, “we’re seeing a lot of really rich greens, and even corals and pinks. Those would all be beautiful accent colors to incorporate with a warm neutral.”

Corning is seeing clients incorporate blue tones in cabinetry, including navy or darker blues. Sure, choosing color for cabinetry can feel risky, but it also makes a bold statement, and one that you can love for years to come.

“My philosophy is, if you [pick] a color you love, you’ll be able to live with it for a long time,” Corning says.

POPULAR PAINT CHOICES

Benjamin Moore’s Pale Oak: This color has warm gray undertones and is “an example of a tone-on-tone neutral that I would love to see in a room,” says designer Shannon Figaro of Fig Interiors. It pairs well with pops of color like the company’s Blue Nova, its 2024 color of the year, or SherwinWilliams’ choice Upward, a breezier, lighter blue.

Benjamin Moore’s Dragon’s Breath :

This is a soft black with a deep brown tone that Deb Corning of DC Interiors & Renovations has in her showroom. “It really warms up our walls,” Corning says. “It’s very nice for hanging pictures, because it’s a really dark background.”

Behr’s Cracked Pepper: The company’s color of the year is a versatile soft black that pairs well with their Laguna Blue, Mountain Olive and Offshore Mist.

HOT HUES

Figaro says color trends are shifting away from grays, which have been popular for the past decade or so. Part of the reason could be related to the end of the pandemic: “People are returning back to habits they love, one being travel,” Figaro says. “People really like to incorporate colors from places they’ve visited or places that are meaningful to them.”

An example might be incorporating the Santorini blue of the Greek islands, or the terracotta tones of the Arizona desert, into pillows or other accessories. The return to travel is “creating a resurgence of really bold colors, which is really fun,” Figaro says.

Nikki Kallio is a Wisconsin-based writer and author of the short story collection “Finding the Bones.”

Spring is on its way! Time to get your home in shape. New drapes? Reupholstery? Pillows? We can do it all for you! Stop in and look at all the new fabric options for Spring!

Building a custom home is a very personal experience. One filled with decisions, emotions, and hopefully a lot of trust. At V ictory Homes, we like to think of ourselves as your partner in this endeavor, building your home together. Choose from our great selection of customizable floor plans or work with our in-house design team to create a custom home that perfectly complements your lifestyle. We’re confident that no matter which option you pick, we’ll surpass your expectations for quality, materials, and especially for service. Every home starts with a vision. We’re here to help you realize yours.

SCAN FOR DIRECTIONS TO ALL OF OUR MODEL HOMES!

THE COST OF UPGRADING YOUR HOME

Whether it’s a quick refresh or a major renovation, these are the most popular home remodeling projects homeowners are requesting.

BY NIKKI KALLIO

When you’re looking to make over a room in your home, it all starts with your budget. There are lower-cost ways to refresh your home if you’re not ready for a complete overhaul. If you’re looking to do something more significant, area designers are seeing a resurgence in requests for larger remodeling projects, such as kitchens and baths, and home additions.

MINOR UPDATES, BIG IMPACT

“The quickest way to freshen up a space is to give it a new coat of paint,” says Autumn Cartee of Architectural Building Arts, Inc. Painting your kitchen cabinets or adding a decorative backsplash can go a long way to make your space feel new again without the cost of a total remodel, she says. “That’s a fun way to bring some [character] into the space and let your own personality shine through.”

A nice gallon of paint can cost anywhere from about $35 to $100 or more — how much you need depends on room size, but generally, a gallon of paint will cover up to about 400 square feet of wall space.

Additionally, painting your kitchen cabinets can go a long way to make your space feel new again without the cost of replacing all of your cabinets or a total remodel, Cartee says. Another way homeowners can refresh a space is by

increasing the natural light that flows into a particular area, “whether that’s creating indoor spaces that bring the outdoors in, improving sight lines into the yard, or [installing] skylights,” says Chad Speight of Chad’s Design Build in Madison.

While many details will impact the price of adding a window or a skylight, a new opening in your home can cost between $5,000 and $10,000, Speight says.

“It depends on size and what the exterior finishes are,” he says. “Obviously, it’s more expensive to alter a masonry wall than it is to alter a wall with wood, metal or vinyl siding.”

MORE EXPENSIVE UPGRADES

Kitchen and bath remodels are still at the top of homeowners’ priorities for remodels, Cartee says. And, both tend to be among the more expensive upgrades.

“From a purely square-foot perspective, bathrooms are the most expensive rooms in the house, typically,” Speight says. The cost will be impacted by the types of finishes and whether the

plumbing and electrical systems need to be redone, he says.

Keeping variability in mind, Speight notes, “a lot of full bathrooms that are relatively small rarely cost less than $40,000 or $50,000. It’s not uncommon to see some bathrooms push up to six figures.”

The pandemic has influenced a movement toward more comfortable, relaxing spaces, Cartee says. Popular client requests include walk-in showers with multiple showerheads and freestanding tubs, which Cartee says makes a bathroom feel more luxurious.

For total kitchen remodels, it’s rare to complete one that’s less than six figures, Speight says. When clients seek kitchen remodels, they’re often looking to create more space for working in the kitchen or entertaining, Cartee says.

“A lot of our clients come to us because things just aren’t functioning the way they need them to,” says Cartee, whose firm updates a lot of historic homes, which often have small kitchens.

Additionally, updating accessibility is often a request, such as widening openings and repositioning counters and other built-ins. “That is an ongoing trend that’s only becoming stronger now as baby boomers are aging,” says Speight.

THE PRICIEST RENOVATIONS

The pandemic has also driven a surge in adding more square footage to the home with an addition. Think: a screened porch, sunroom or outdoor living space, Speight says. With remote work being the norm, it’s also spurred a demand for home offices, some with their own bathroom, Cartee says. Other clients have sought additions for hobbies or extra storage for some of their hobby tools.

While the cost of a home addition is influenced by multiple factors, adding more square footage can start at $300,000 and increase from there, Cartee says.

“However, it depends on the architecture of the home, access to the site, the impact to the home’s mechanical systems, and the size and the type of addition,” Cartee says. She notes that the number and quality of windows, architectural details and material finishes also add to the cost.

Additions can be tricky, particularly in the Madison area, if the home is older or sits on a small lot.

“ ... We can add vertically to the home [if] zoning allows, or if there’s space on the land, we can add to the backside,” Cartee says. “But, in these small-lot situations, these aren’t huge additions. They’re one or two rooms, max.”

MONEY

Local money and finance experts answer your most pressing questions.

EDITED BY SHAYNA MACE

Money can be a touchy, taboo or welcome topic, depending on who you talk to. Some women freely share what they make, how much their house cost or what they spent on a lavish vacation. Others are more tightlipped, choosing to keep their money matters private. No matter which camp you fall into, at some point, you’ve had a question about money.

Your Budget

What should I prioritize when creating a budget — paying off debt, or saving for emergencies?

Afra Smith, founder of The Melanin Project: “It is critical to prioritize saving for emergencies. Without accessible emergency cash, debt may rise, jeopardizing your budget stability.

Establish an emergency fund before tackling debt repayment. I recommend allocating a minimum of $1,000 in your emergency fund. Do this first by paying only the minimum on debts until that sum is reached. Ensuring the presence of this fund helps to safeguard against financial setbacks and supports effective debt reduction.

Regularly assess and replenish the emergency fund if it falls below $1,000 to maintain a reliable safety net during financial challenges. Additionally, aim to set aside at least 5% of each paycheck for your savings account. This balanced approach ensures debt reduction and financial security go hand in hand.”

“Complete self-restriction [with money] isn’t a healthy long-term practice. While there may be times that you forgo something you love to tackle debts, you can still manage debt repayment while budgeting for things you enjoy.”

– Afra Smith

How do I balance saving for my child’s education and also retirement?

Meg Prestigiacomo, director, the Prestigiacomo Carroll Group, Private Wealth Management, Baird: “There are no loans for retirement; however, there are sources of funding for education in addition to your own savings, such as loans, scholarships and utilizing your cash flow when your kids are in college. Making smart decisions about education goals is important to avoid excessive debt loads for the student and/or the parents. I recommend you start something when your child is born. This can be a 529 plan (like with Edvest) or a savings account. When family and friends give money for birthdays and holidays, stash that in the education account. If you have large day care expenses, when your child starts elementary school, take those extra funds and invest them in that account.”

Afra Smith

The Lowdown on Investing

I have no idea how to begin my investing journey. Where do I start?

Jenny Giemza, senior vice president, Wealthspire Advisors: “Investing in yourself needs to be a priority! If your employer offers a 401(k) or other retirement plan, inquire with your HR department on how you can participate in this. Employer retirement plans tend to be the cheapest opportunity to invest with the greatest resources, and many offer a matching contribution which should be maximized — don’t leave ‘free’ money on the table! If you’d like to have more flexibility with your investment choices, explore reputable brokerage platforms such as Charles Schwab, Fidelity or Vanguard. These large firms should be competitive when it comes to trading fees, costs, et cetera. Vanguard offers very low-cost index funds, allowing a do-it-yourself investor the ability to create a very diversified portfolio. The more time you have to invest your funds (i.e., the younger you begin investing), the more risky you can be with the investment options.

For funds needed in the short-term (i.e., the next one to three years), you’ll want to protect these funds by exploring options such as brokerage money markets, bank CDs or Treasuries.”

Women are investing — a 2021 Fidelity Investments study reports that 67% of women now invest outside of their retirement plans — a 44% increase from 2018.

What if I’m maxing out my 401(k) at work?

What else can I invest in?

Elaine

B. Rich,

CFP®, founder, wealth

advisor,

EnRich Financial Partners:

“If you have already maxed out contributions to your 401(k) plan and you still have excess cash to invest, consider opening a taxable brokerage account and a Roth IRA.

The first option is open to anyone regardless of your income, and if you invest in stocks, your annual tax liability will be limited to the amount of your interest, dividends and realized capital gains — most of which are taxed at favorable tax rates.

Contributions to a Roth depend on your household income. The future growth in a Roth becomes tax-free as long as you hold it for five years and are at least 59 ½ years old at distribution. You may always distribute your original contributions tax-free.”

Elaine B. Rich

The Golden Years

Do I have enough money to live on for the rest of my life?

Elaine B. Rich: “This is one of the biggest questions I get as a financial planner. Here’s what you need to consider:

• Assess your current income and expenses as well as project your expected future income and expenses, including income taxes and factoring for inflation.

• Determine your goals for retirement or how you envision living your life in retirement. Take into account travel expenses, housing arrangements and possible long-term care expenses.

• Evaluate your current savings rate as well as the amount of any employer-provided contributions. If you are struggling with how much to contribute, there are many online resources that can help you, such as the fourinput calculator at Vanguard (Google “Vanguard Nest Egg Calculator”) and the one my own firm offers (find it at connect.emaplan.com/4a). The important thing is to get started as soon as possible and adopt practices that get you quickly comfortable living on less than you earn.

• Make sure you are investing your money in stocks, and not just a savings account. Savings accounts consistently yield less than or about the rate of inflation long-term — and that’s before income taxes. Investing in stocks over a period of at least 10 years has historically provided returns that are three to four times that of inflation. Doing so will increase the likelihood of not running out of money prematurely.

• Reevaluate your plan and progress toward reaching your goals. Life circumstances change! Make adjustments to your savings rate and goals as needed.”

How much should I be saving for retirement?

Meg Prestigiacomo: “Everyone’s circumstances can be very different, so really the correct answer can be determined by meeting with a financial advisor to help you figure this out. The general rule of thumb is that you should be saving 15% of your income for retirement, and this should start in your 20s. If your employer makes a contribution, then that is included in the 15% guideline. For instance, if your employer contributes 5%, you only need to set aside 10%. If you are unable to save 15%, then start small and increase annually and/or when you receive a pay raise. Depending on your goals and existing resources, you may need to save more or less.”

On average, women live five years longer than men, and 81% of people ages 85 and over are women*. This is why it’s crucial to be actively involved in managing your finances (even in a partnership) and save for your future.

Meg Prestigiacomo

The Biggest Money Mistakes to Avoid

Jennifer Ridley Hanson, CFP®, CDFA®, director of wealth planning, senior wealth advisor and partner,

Wealth,

at SlateStone

dispenses some essential advice.

#1: Not being aware of your family’s finances.

“Take an interest in your money. It’s easy

where it is located and how to access it when you need to.”

#2: Being too conservative with your long-term investments.

“We know that women live longer than men, so we need to accumulate more money to fund a comfortable retirement. Women usually are less comfortable taking risks with investments. While investment risk sounds scary, there is a direct relationship between risk and reward. The risk associated with a growth-oriented, long-term investment is typically a risk worth taking over a long enough time period, as the ups and downs of the stock market’s volatility tend to smooth out over time. Remember that there is also a risk of outliving your assets if you are not investing to at least keep pace with inflation.”

card balance transfer game doesn’t help unless you are paying down the balance and not adding to your debt at the same time. If you take advantage of a low or zero-percent ‘teaser rate,’ you should be making more than the minimum payment each month so you can pay off that card balance in full before the rate goes back to the usual 21% — or more.”

Not having a handle on your

“Have a solid plan to pay off credit cards as fast as you can. Playing the credit

Journey to wellness

Alissa and Chad Gardner are passionate about financial well-being—and have always found opportunities to involve their children in their business endeavors. With the help of Dupaco, they're teaching their kids how to be good stewards and manage money wisely.

“It’s pretty cool when your kids hear something you’ve been teaching them for years, but it’s not coming from your voice,” Chad said. “It’s like having someone else in your corner,” Alissa said.

Talking Taxes

I give charitably throughout the year, both money and items. What tax benefits are there to this?

Carrie Waters Schmidt, MS, CFP®, CDFA®*, AWMA®, ADPA®, CSRIC™ Financial Planner, Equanimity Wealth (a registered representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors): “On your income taxes, you’ll need to exceed the standard deduction, which is the combination of your property taxes, mortgage interest and charitable donations (as well as a few other items) in order for any of those items to be deductible from your income taxes — as in, reduce the amount of taxes you may owe.

For 2024, the standard deduction is $14,600 if you’re single, or $29,200 if you’re married and file jointly. If you are close to the standard deduction, then saving all your Goodwill and St. Vinny’s receipts and monetary donation records is worthwhile — but otherwise it’s likely not.

If you’re over the age of 70 ½, you can bypass this by gifting directly from an IRA through a qualified charitable distribution.”

Organizing Your Estate

What is an estate plan? What documents comprise an estate plan?

Carrie Waters Schmidt: “An estate plan speaks on your behalf upon your death. It’s made up of several documents and beneficiary designations. It’s important to note that everyone should have an estate plan to clearly state how you want your assets distributed and dictate whether or not you can avoid probate. An estate plan includes:

• Beneficiary designations: Most people think their will is going to direct distributions of all their assets upon their death. But, many of their assets have beneficiary designations that trump the will. Typical assets that have beneficiary designations are life insurance policies and retirement accounts.

• Asset titling: Similar to beneficiary designations, people often forget that the titling on their assets trumps their will. If an asset is owned by you and your mom as Joint with Rights of Survivors (which is often the default ownership type), at death your mom will get those assets, not your spouse or your kids.

• Last will and testament: This states how you want your assets divided and lists guardians for minor children. You can also include a testamentary trust for your kids in this document so you can outline at what age you want your kids to have full control over any assets they inherit from you.

• Healthcare and Financial Powers of Attorney: This describes who you want to act on your behalf if you become incapacitated or cannot express your own wishes.

• Living will: This outlines whether or not you would like to utilize life-sustaining procedures in the event you have a terminal condition or are in a persistent vegetative state.”

“An estate plan is not only for someone with a large amount of wealth or assets — this is a common misconception!”

– Carrie Waters Schmidt

Carrie Waters Schmidt

What to Consider When Starting a Business or Side Hustle

Jill Mack, VP private and commercial banking at Capitol Bank, says to start with these steps.

1. Set clear financial goals. Develop a solid business plan with financial projections to determine how much you need to start your business or side hustle. Create a detailed budget for the business/ side hustle. This will give you a clear picture of the financial resources required and help you plan

accordingly. There are resources, like SCORE (Senior Core of Retired Executives), that can assist you.

2. Create a financial plan. Start by assessing your current financial situation, including your income, expenses and savings. Identify areas where you can cut back on unnecessary expenses and allocate those savings towards your business. Consider consulting with a financial advisor to create a comprehensive financial plan.

3. Explore funding options. Talk with your banker about loan options, whether they are Small Business Administration guaranteed loans or conventional bank loans. Research and explore grants, and crowdfunding options.

4. Start small. Consider starting on a smaller scale. Begin by offering your

products or services to a limited group or within your local community. As your business grows and generates revenue, reinvest the profits back into your business and then expand to reach a wider market.

Women in Law

Whether you seek a lawyer for a family law issue, a divorce or an estate plan, an attorney is a compassionate, trusted advisor in your corner. Meet some of the city’s lawyers who work with individuals and families for effective legal resolutions.

Divorce Different! There is a Better Way.

AsDivorce

”

a family law attorney, Kimberly Ripp always knew litigation escalated conflicts and destroyed relationships during divorce proceedings. She knew there had to be a better way to guide families through this challenging time.

After 25 years in traditional practice, Ripp took matters into her own hands and developed an approach that made sense. Her process allows couples to navigate a divorce without collateral damage, and prepares them to be good coparents. Families experience a divorce that protects the children, preserves self respect and helps them behave better rather than worse. In her cutting-edge, interdisciplinary approach, Ripp joins forces with a financial expert and a

trained mental health professional to provide comprehensive support and guidance through every part of the divorce process, helping couples remain amicable as they separate. This capitalizes on the family’s ability to work together to come up with elegant solutions.

Ripp’s commitment to compassion and civility are the hallmarks of her work in divorce, legal separation, paternity, child custody and placement, child support, alimony/maintenance, post-divorce motions, and prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. Combining deep empathy with keen legal intelligence, she will indeed help you find a better way through whatever challenges you are facing.

KIMBERLY RIPP

Building Genuine Connections With Clients

WA key component to a trial lawyer’s success involves building connections: connections with clients, the judge, the jury and even the other side. Our job is to ensure the client’s story is told truthfully, with clarity and in the proper light.

hen personal injury Attorney Danielle M. Schroder decided to join MacGillis Wiemer, LLC, in Verona, Wisconsin, it wasn’t simply a business decision. It was her heart saying, “This is the community where I live and where I want to work, closer to my people and the businesses I care about.” Schroder enjoys connecting with clients at their new office.

When clients meet Schroder, she’s like a friendly neighbor who waves hello and genuinely cares about her clients. Imagine: a lawyer who cares about more than just paperwork — a real person who’s got your back. And, Schroder is a tenacious fighter in the courtroom. Here’s her special sauce: she understands a vital element of her work involves forging relationships.

“A key component to a trial lawyer’s success involves building connections: connections

with clients, the judge, the jury and even the other side. Our job is to ensure the client’s story is told truthfully, with clarity and in the proper light.”

Outside of work, Schroder balances family life, work and play — which for her, means getting outside for a run or bike ride. She understands life can be a juggling act, and she’s here for it.

“It is a privilege to be a part of clients’ lives and to be trusted, especially in a time of vulnerability, as their representative in the pursuit of justice. Every day, I am touched by my clients’ stories.”

If you’re ever in need of legal assistance, particularly involving injuries to you or a loved one, be sure to connect with Schroder. In her world, being genuine, kind and caring isn’t just a strategy — it’s who she is.

DANIELLE SCHRODER

Finding Your New Path Forward

LJohnson believes it is important to be more than just a legal representative—she is an ally in navigating the challenges that arise during divorce.

ife’s journey is unpredictable, and navigating the challenging terrain of divorce can catch anyone off guard, often leading individuals to attorney Jennifer Johnson’s office amid feelings of failure and emotional upheaval. Acknowledging the profound impact of divorce on both financial and emotional wellbeing, Johnson’s role is to help her clients salvage what can be saved and to partner with them on their new path forward.

In the family law realm, where finances, personal relationships and emotions are laid bare, Johnson is a reassuring presence

during the turbulence. Through empathy and a non-judgmental approach, she cultivates communication and trust with her clients. This not only lays a solid foundation for collaboration, but also yields valuable insights to craft the most effective and personalized legal strategies possible.

Ultimately, Johnson believes it is important to be more than just a legal representative for clients — she is an ally for her clients as they navigate the challenges that arise during divorce. Along with legal know-how, she is there to offer strength, resilience and unwavering support throughout the entire divorce process.

JENNIFER JOHNSON

Personal Attention for Your Personal Injury

Clifford & Raihala has been fighting for injured Wisconsinites for 50 years. Reflecting on the firm’s longevity and her own success, attorney and shareholder Carrie Devitt believes a close attorney-client relationship is key.

“I believe the firm’s longevity is due in part to our attorneys’ commitment to providing personal attention to each client. We have incredible support staff, but I’m proud to tell prospective clients that they will work directly with me throughout their case — I will be your contact, I will listen to you and I will learn what you and your family are going through in the aftermath of an accident or work injury,” says Devitt.

Each client’s situation is different, and Devitt believes understanding their hardships, fears and goals leads to better results. Devitt considers client referrals to friends and loved ones an important measure of success.

“When a former client tells an injured loved one to call me for help, I understand that the attention and honesty I provide are really valued by my clients. And when a respected colleague refers a friend or family member to me, I believe that reflects on both my professionalism and my ability to advocate for my clients to maximize their recovery,” she says.

CARRIE DEVITT

Make Good Choices

What is the legacy you want to leave behind, and what are you doing today to work towards that? Whatever that looks likes to you, make sure you have a clear and detailed estate plan documented. Partner Stephanie Thompson of Krueger, Hernandez & Thompson SC, is a seasoned attorney who specializes in all the crucial aspects of your asset allocation, end-of-life care decisions and business succession planning.

When you work with Thompson and her team, your family and loved ones will be grateful for the clarity and foresight you provided with a comprehensive estate plan. Further, once you have completed the hard work of creating an estate plan, it’s also equally important to periodically review its entirety for accuracy.

What are you waiting for? Cross your estate plan off your to-do list. KHT is always here to help. We are Real Lawyers for Real People, assisting you with compassion and care.

Once you have completed your estate plan, it’s also equally important to periodically review its entirety for accuracy.

8215 Greenway Blvd., Ste. 590, Middleton, WI 53562 608.824.9540 | khtlawyers.com

Your Family is Our Focus

The preeminent, top-rated, experienced lawyers at Your Family Law Center offer compassionate and zealous advocacy in our clients’ family law matters, whether that be a divorce, legal separation, paternity, change of custody or placement, stepparent adoption, grandparent’s rights, guardianship, or child or spousal support.

Our team is dedicated to helping our clients obtain results that reduce trauma for children and are in their best interest, while also protecting our clients’ rights and assets. Many clients are satisfied with and prefer results from settlement, whether through mediation or alternative dispute resolution — but our lawyers are prepared to fight in court if that is what the case demands. We have obtained successful results in courts throughout the state as well as at the appellate level.

Read about our accomplishments and reviews on martindale.com, superlawyers.com, avvo.com or yourfamilylawcenter.com.

“Family Law: It’s all we do!” Reputable attorneys doing reputable work.

152 W. Johnson St., Ste. 210, Madison, WI 53703 | 608.819.6800 121 E. Racine St., Jefferson, WI 53549 | yourfamilylawcenter.com

STEPHANIE A. THOMPSON

GINGER L. MURRAY

MEGAN E. CORNING

Skilled, Compassionate Advocacy in Family Law

Olivia Kay Mote is a family law attorney and a member of the board of directors at Bell, Moore & Richter, S.C. She represents clients in divorce, legal separation, and paternity cases; post-judgment matters involving child custody and placement as well as a range of financial issues; marital property agreements, including prenups; and other family legal matters.

Mote seeks to offer supportive, compassionate legal counsel to clients restructuring their relationships. She draws on her training and experience, including as a former educator, to help clients become informed, active participants in their own cases. She listens carefully to each client, building mutual understanding that supports cost-conscious collaboration.

She considers it a privilege to serve clients as their advocate in periods of life transition. She is dedicated to problem-solving — she looks for reasonable resolutions through negotiation, honoring her clients’ agency and dignity, but is also prepared to litigate vigorously in service of her clients’ goals.

Legal Counsel You Can Trust

OnJanuary 1, 2024, Morgan K. Stippel was promoted to the board of directors at Bell, Moore & Richter, S.C. in Madison, Wisconsin. She is an attorney practicing in civil defense litigation and regularly represents clients in state and federal lawsuits. She has significant experience navigating all stages of litigation, including trying cases and handling appeals that follow.

Stippel understands that delivering the highest level of advocacy to her clients starts with building relationships and developing trust. She leads with empathy by actively listening to her clients, immersing herself in the facts of their cases, and helping them identify their goals. Once identified, she helps her clients seamlessly navigate the legal process to achieve their goals. Clients trust Stippel to passionately take on their cases, personally invest in the process and provide legal counsel they can rely on. It is a privilege to serve her clients and her community.

When hiring a lawyer, clients need someone they can trust with what is often the most important challenge in their life at that moment. It is a privilege to be that trusted lawyer for my clients.

345 W. Washington Ave., Ste. 302, Madison, WI 53703 | 608.259.2342 mstippel@bmrlawyers.com | bmrlawyers.com

OLIVIA KAY MOTE

MORGAN K. STIPPEL

Secondhand SCORES

Thrift and secondhand shopping is eco- and wallet-friendly, and just plain fun. Come along with us as we take you to the city’s best spots.

BY KATRINA SIMYAB PHOTOGRAPHY BY HILLARY SCHAVE

Madison is a hotspot for secondhand shopping, from vintage to retro and everything in between. For those new to thrifting or old pros, think of this as your guide for your next new-to-you treasure hunt.

Chic Clothing

THE PINK POODLE

Focusing on high-end labels and designer fashion, the Pink Poodle includes 9,000 square feet of colorful hats, costume jewelry, handbags and clothing — some of which can also be shopped through their website. 6676 Odana Rd., thepinkpoodleresale.com

YADA FAIR TRADE & RESALE

This secondhand shop’s proceeds go toward raising awareness about human trafficking and assisting local trafficking survivors. Clothing is carefully curated (we bought a cute Old Navy sherpa sweatshirt for $10 when we visited!) and shoppers can also browse delicious-smelling, fair-trade bath and body items made by a Milwaukee-based collective. 2620 Parmenter St., Middleton, yadaftr.com

PLATO’S CLOSET

Teens and tweens can join in on the secondhand saving with name-brand shoes, clothing and accessories at up to 70% off retail prices. Find teen faves American Eagle, Hollister, Urban Outfitters, Free People and more. Both locations are always bursting with the latest in Gen-Z fashion. 7968 Tree Ln. & 1601 Thierer Rd., platoscloset.com

STILLGOOD’S

Visit here for an experience similar to raiding the closet of your stylish, vintageloving friend. To master the art of high/low dressing, the well-organized mix of secondhand contemporary and retro pieces is great for assembling unique outfits. 1521 Williamson St., stillgoodsmadison.com

SINGLESTITCH MADISON

This State Street shop has rows of well-vetted inventory and is a popular place to snag vintage band T-shirts and throwback UW ‘fits. It’s even been a stop for celebrities passing through — Pete Davidson and Trevor Wallace have both shopped their racks. 214 State St., facebook.com/ singlestitchmadison

UPSHIFT SWAP SHOP

To help reduce waste, designer Lindsay Leno started hosting clothing swaps before opening Upshift in 2013. With a similar sustainable concept, shoppers bring in a bag of clothing or accessories to donate, pay a swap fee, and then refill their bag from what’s in store. 836 E. Johnson St., upshiftswapshop.com

STYLE ENCORE

Situated on the East Side, Style Encore shares a parking lot with Plato’s Closet and Once Upon a Child — franchises all owned by the same parent company. The “sophisticated sibling” to these other stores, shop vetted, secondhand finds from brands like Ann Taylor, Madewell and Kate Spade. 1735 Thierer Rd., styleencoremadisonwi.com

RETHREADS

Curating vintage and collectible items along with popular brands, every trip to Rethreads is an exploration in fashion. As a buy/sell/ trade boutique, both women and men can shop recycled styles. 410 State St., rethreadsfashion.com

Stillgood's

Retro Realness

REWIND DECOR

With expertly curated midcentury and post-modern pieces, Rewind is the place to go when searching for that piece of kitschy décor that will have your friends asking, “where did you get that?” 1336 Williamson St., facebook.com/rewinddecor

RETRO REVOLUTION

Stacked with a riot of colorful glassware, vintage signs and collectibles, you won’t forget a trip here. 3225 E. Washington Ave., facebook.com/retrorevolutionmadison

Astounding Antiques

ATOMIC ANTIQUES

A newer addition to the Madison antiques scene, this warehouse owned by husband-and-wife team, Bob and Jennifer Richardson, is one of the most interesting stops in the city. One hundred-plus dealers sell furnishings, jewelry, décor, records, clothing and so much more. 4546 Verona Rd., atomicantiquesmadison.com

MAPLE BLUFF ANTIQUE MALL

Upon arrival to this collector’s paradise, don’t be surprised if you’re greeted with a hearty “hello” from owner Carol Knight, or a welcome sniff from the shop dog. 4261 Lien Rd., maplebluffantiquemall.com

ANTIQUES MALL OF MADISON

Make an afternoon out of browsing over 120 dealer booths, all located in the city’s longest-operating antiques mall, open since 1982. 4748 Cottage Grove Rd., antiquesmadison.com

INSIDER TIP:

“Be open to finding anything — don’t go in with a plan — go early, and go often! Take time to research items after you’ve found them, and know what a real treasure is worth when you find one.”

Mollie Martin, vintage curator, Good Day Shop, and owner, Kidsheets Vintage

LEFT SHANNA WOLF

Vintage Views

KOOL THINGS VINTAGE CLOTHING

The old adage “good things come in small packages” is spot-on when it comes to this Willy Street shop. Fans of vintage jeans, T-shirts, caps and jackets should absolutely add it to their must-stop list. 1310 Willy St., instagram.com/ koolthingsmadison

INSIDER TIP:

GOOD STYLE SHOP

A staple of the Madison vintage community, Good Style Shop carries clothing from the 1930s through the 2000s. Can’t make it to their Johnson Street location? Shop the store online or mark your calendar for their twice-a-year Midwest Vintage Flea, Wisconsin’s largest and premier vintage fashion trade show. 817 E. Johnson St., goodstyleshop.com

“I usually recommend to people who are new to wearing vintage that they start with one piece per outfit. When you’re not used to wearing vintage, it can feel like a costume if you’re not comfortable in it.”

Carrie Astin, owner, Sunne Boutique, which carries a small selection of vintage pieces

THE COZY HOME

We love a “choose your own” thrifting adventure. For quality, consigned furnishings, check out The Cozy Home’s original Monona location. For new and used furnishings, head to their new Middleton store. 6330 Monona Dr., Monona & 6801 University Ave. Ste. 140, Middleton, thecozyhomemadison.com

Pop-Up Sales

THE ATTIC SALE

For over half a century, Attic Angels’ Attic Sale has been a go-to event, featuring top-notch, gently-used home goods. atticangel. org/events-news/ signature-sales/attic-sale

HALF-PINT RESALE

The Madison area’s largest children’s consignment sale (held twice per year) is a local favorite. halfpintresale.com

LIL’ BADGER CONSIGNMENT SALE

In addition to biannual children’s consignment events, their annual holiday toy sale is popular too. lilbadgerconsignmentsale.com

JUST BETWEEN FRIENDS SALE

The local franchise of JBF holds two children’s resale events per year in Dane County. danecounty.jbfsale.com

Haute Home

BOOMERANGS RESALE STORE

Affiliated with Door Creek Church Ministry, some of this store’s profits go to support community needs on the city’s North Side. On the last two days of the month, some of their items drop to 99 cents. 1133 N. Sherman Ave., boomerangsresale.org

THE BOUNTY

New to the scene, this artful, expertly-merchandised destination has “rooms” organized by theme, and offers killer vintage home goods and clothing.

1041 S. Park St., thebountymadison.com

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY RESTORE

While mostly a destination for thrifted building materials, both locations are goldmines for lamps, house paint, furniture and mirrors. 6201 Odana Rd. & 4207 Monona Dr., habitatdane.org/restore

DECONSTRUCTION INC.

This warehouse is bursting with locally-sourced architectural salvage, reclaimed lumber and vintage furnishings, mostly from pre-1940s homes and buildings. 1010 Walsh Rd. dcisalvage.com

WILLY STREET TREASURE SHOP

Discover the best in bits and bobs at this shop, where you can select a treasure from a mix of vintage and new things. 1236 Williamson St.

Closet ’Fits and Home Picks

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL THRIFT STORES

Affectionately known as St. Vinny’s, veteran thrifters are sure to have a favorite location. (One BRAVA staffer says the Verona location is her favorite.) Good thing there are two in Madison, four more in neighboring communities, and even a Dig & Save Outlet Store on Park Street. svdpmadison.com

AGRACE THRIFT STORE

Visit one of three Madison locations, or visit them all for a full-day thrifting expedition. Agrace has two thrift stores, as well as a home store on Stoughton Road that only carries furniture and home décor. 118 Junction Rd., 2402 East Springs Dr. & 1946 S. Stoughton Rd., agrace.org/thriftstore

DANE COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY THRIFT STORE

At this shop, you can help animals and score some great deals — talk about a win-win! Volunteer workers keep shelves stocked with everything from knickknacks and shoes to clothing and pet-care supplies. 6904 Watts Rd., giveshelter.org/ our-services/thrift-store

GOODWILL

No matter what side of town you live on, chances are a Goodwill is nearby. Eight stores are brimming with thousands of items. Hot tip: they also sell online and have an auction website, too goodwillscwi.org (online marketplace: scwi-goodwill-marketplace. myshopify.com, auction website: shopgoodwill.com/categories/listing)

SIMPLY SAVVY

Home goods, art and clothing aren’t the only things shoppers can expect to find at Simply Savvy. As a quality consignment location, they have unique furniture for luxurious tastes at lower prices. 6333 University Ave. Ste. 102, Middleton, simplysavvyconsign.com

INSIDER TIP:

“I love my local Goodwill and St. Vincent de Paul. If I [have a] day, I love to jet off to … a small town and walk to the small antique and thrift shops in Jefferson, Fort Atkinson, Janesville, Watertown, Columbus and more. We are so lucky in the Midwest that we have access to so much great secondhand and vintage!”

Cire’ Rosenbaum Cross, owner, Dune Gift and Home

For the Kiddos

ONCE UPON A CHILD

With a huge selection of children’s clothing and other big-ticket baby items (strollers, cribs, high chairs), a stop at Once Upon A Child is not only smart, it’s cheaper. 1651 Thierer Rd., onceuponachildmadisoneast.com

THE NEXT GENERATION

This Stoughton shop is a treasure trove of wonderful, gently-used kid's stuff. They also carry toys and games. Bonus: they sell women's clothing if you want to treat yourself. 161 E. Main St., Stoughton, nextgenerationstoughton.com

HAPPILY EVER AFTER CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE

Save a bundle on the next size up! Offering discounted children’s clothing from nicer brands (Zutano, Tea, Mini Boden) from newborn up to size 10/12, this west side boutique also carries outerwear, shoes, toys and more. 708 S. Whitney Way, happilyeverafterchildrens boutique.com

Our Favorite Secondhand Finds

BRAVA staffers share their best style scores.

"As I was editing this feature, I realized I was wearing a leopard-print Lands’ End fleece from Style Encore. Easily my favorite women’s secondhand shop in town.”

Shayna Mace, editorial director

“I bought a $7 Brandy Melville sweater at the St. Vinny’s in Verona for my teenage daughter. She loved it.”

— Dena Frisch, sales manager

“The Middleton Goodwill always has hidden gems — I bought a brand-new Calvin Klein blazer for $10, and a side table for my living room for $5!”

— Cici Rindy, social media manager

“At the east side Goodwill, I found a dresser for $10 — such a great find for my son’s nursery!”

— Melissa Moody, graphic designer

Local experts in women’s health

As women, we face unique health changes and challenges throughout our lives. Whether you’re expecting, experiencing perimenopause or menopause, or dealing with hair loss, local women’s health experts can address your wellness concerns and help you feel your best.

OB/GYNs Do More Than Deliver Babies

As our knowledge of the human body, health and wellness has evolved, the need for specialty care as a complement to primary care has also advanced. One such specialty area is obstetrics and gynecology. An OB/GYN has undergone extensive training on reproductive health.

But what does this mean, exactly? At Associated Physicians, we like to educate patients about all of the concerns that an OB/GYN can help address — which are well beyond pregnancy.

“Of course, patients to come to us when they are pregnant, but there are so many other areas of reproductive health we specialize in. For example, if a patient is experiencing heavy or painful periods, we can educate patients and help them figure out what is causing these problem periods and improve their quality of life,” says Dr. Shefaali Sharma, MD, OB/GYN with Associated Physicians.

OB/GYNs also focus on infertility evaluation and care. This can be a sensitive and difficult time for a patient, and OB/GYNs can counsel patients on pre-pregnancy health, options to improve conception and evaluations for infertility.

“There are certainly times when we exhaust all of our options and evaluations for infertility or endometriosis,” explains Dr. Sharma. “In these circumstances, we are able to [give] referrals to boardcertified doctors who specialize in infertility, with a focus on surgical interventions for those with severe endometriosis, for example, or those considering invitro fertilization (IVF) services.”

In addition to addressing pregnancy, infertility and painful periods, OB/GYNs can also perform surgeries — and not just cesarean sections! OB/GYNs do surgeries for uterine fibroids, heavy periods, ovarian cysts and even hysterectomies.

OB/GYNs also offer individualized counseling regarding birth control, which can be used to prevent pregnancy, but also to manage heavy periods, cyclerelated symptoms and more. They can discuss management options for perimenopause and menopause symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness. The list goes on — an OB/GYN can consult with patients on urinary leakage, painful sex, irregular periods and preventative health.

“As an OB/GYN, we are here to care for and educate our patients regarding their reproductive system and [overall] health, and we can do so with counseling, medical treatments and surgical options. We offer a full spectrum of care across [a patient’s] reproductive life cycle – your OB/GYN can do it all!” Dr Sharma notes.

An OB/GYN is lucky enough to specialize in reproductive health and build lifelong relationships with their patients as they see them through some of the most memorable, challenging and life-altering moments of their lives. Associated Physicians’ OB/ GYNs truly embrace and appreciate this privilege.

Education is Empowerment

When it comes to hair restoration and skin rejuvenation, treatment centers and options abound. How does one even begin to decide where to start? Shamila Gupta Rawal, MD, is a board-certified otolaryngologist/head and neck surgeon and specializes in the management of hair loss and rejuvenation of the face and neck at her private practice on the west side of Madison.

Thinning hair and hair loss are not only men’s issues — they can be devastating to women, too. Yet, marketing is often targeted toward men’s hair restoration and boosting their self-confidence, and women are often unaware of similar options for them. Many physicians are also unfamiliar with the diagnosis and treatment of female hair loss, and their patients are often relegated to camouflage techniques or drastic hairstyle changes.

At The Rawal Institute for Hair Restoration and Aesthetic Medicine, Dr. Rawal understands the physical and psychological toll hair loss takes on both women and men, and her approach is rooted in evidence-based medicine. All patients undergo a thorough medical and laboratory evaluation, including a microscopic exam of their scalp. Dr. Rawal explains each of her findings and their prognostic significance so her patients can understand their care plan.

Dr. Rawal strongly believes that education is empowerment. She makes sure her patients understand the science behind the care she provides, so they can play an active role in their own care plan. Dr. Rawal’s approach gives her patients hope and a plan that can adjust as their needs change over time.

Skin rejuvenation is not one-size-fits-all either, and having comprehensive knowledge about skin types and conditions is key to providing good results and avoiding disfiguring complications, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or scarring. Dr. Rawal’s medical expertise and training in facial plastic surgery allow her

to provide the best regimens of care for all skin types and tones, especially sensitive skin (rosacea, acne, aging) and darker skin tones, which require special considerations.

After a thorough medical, laboratory and advanced skin imaging assessment, Dr. Rawal gains a unique understanding of each patient’s skin rejuvenation needs and crafts a treatment plan that is safe and effective. She thoroughly explains the science behind skin aging and skin inflammation so that the patient’s results are long-lasting and self-maintaining.

Dr. Rawal strives to create a partnership with her patients with a shared goal of healthier hair and skin for life. If you are interested in learning more, consider attending one of Dr Rawal’s Science and Art Series presentations. We guarantee you will come away with new knowledge!

DR. SHAMILA RAWAL

• Attend one or all presentations, where you will learn about the most cutting-edge technologies in hair restoration and skin rejuvenation

• Enjoy live demonstrations, mini consultations and delicious eats

April 30, 10 a.m.

Skin Rejuvenation, featuring: July 29, 7 p.m.

• Take advantage of very attractive promotional pricing on day-of purchases

• Seats for each event are limited to 10, so register right away

• Preview our gallery of before and after examples on Instagram: @madisonhairdoc

• Engage in riveting Q&A discussions &

Lines and Volume Loss, featuring:

November 4, 7 p.m. Advances in Medical and Surgical Hair Restoration

2 Science Ct., Ste. 101, Madison 608.721.6132 • therawalinstitute.com

Need an Energy Boost?

By Sue Sveum

You don’t have to be an athlete to benefit from energy-boosting supplements. According to Kelly Hutchinson, ND, a naturopathic doctor at Community Pharmacy’s west side Community Wellness Shop, supplements are a safe and natural way to improve performance, enhance recovery and manage chronic issues that interfere with people remaining active throughout life.

“Energy issues can occur as a result of [anything]: hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, overtraining, digestive problems, lack of sleep, chronic disease or simply aging,” explains Dr. Hutchinson.

“One important symptom — and common complaint — is fatigue.”

Feeling tired? Dr. Hutchinson suggests trying one these supplements for the boost you need.

• Methylcobalamin (active Vitamin B12) — important for energy, sleep and mood.

• Vitamin D — helps with mood, energy, hormone balancing and your immune system.

• Eleutherococcus — helps with stress adaptation, improving mental clarity and bodily fatigue.

• Green powders — packed with nutrients from green vegetables, it’s like adding a whole food, multivitamin to your daily routine.

• Magnesium glycinate — great for fatigue caused by poor sleep, helping with muscle relaxation and cramping, while calming the nervous system for relaxation and better sleep.

Pain Into

Purpose

Failure, cancer, loss, trauma — all are devastating setbacks. Five women share how they were able to come to terms with life-altering situations, and push forward.

BY KRISTINE HANSEN, NIKKI KALLIO, SHAYNA MACE AND JESSICA STEINHOFF

SCHAVE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HILLARY

I Was Changed Because of Cancer

The last thing Diane Anderson expected to hear in 2002 was that she had breast cancer — at 44, she was an active and otherwise healthy mother of three girls. Nor did she expect that it was just the beginning of her health concerns: In 2013, doctors found a “suspicious” spot on her lung, and in 2023 she developed a four-centimeter meningioma — a benign but potentially cancerous brain tumor — which required an eight-hour surgery to remove.

Over the past two decades, Anderson has been through multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, long-term drug therapy and 33 rounds of radiation — twice. Through it all, “I had tons of help from my family and friends,” including from her husband, Paul, who went to every chemo and doctor appointment with her, she recalls. A teacher took time to have lunch with her youngest daughter at least once a week, and there was a constant stream of delivered meals, house cleaning and rides for her kids. “And I even had one friend that did returns for me at Christmastime.”

Anderson also received support through the American Cancer Society’s Look Good Feel Better program. So in 2003, when Anderson was asked by friend Joanie Conley to be the honorary chair of the organization’s Relay for Life event in Waunakee, it seemed like a way to return that support and help other patients and families who could benefit.

Her first year, Anderson organized five teams and raised more than $12,000. Over the past 21 years, she’s raised $266,047 for the organization via Relay for Life teams, wine-and-cheese events, rummage sales and online fundraising .

“It just definitely hits me in the heart when I think of the support I’ve had from friends and family and the American Cancer Society. They may not know who I am, but I know who they are,” Anderson says. She notes her late friend Conley (who passed away in 2023 of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma) was a hugely positive influence on her, too.

Anderson, who has some ongoing health issues related to her treatment, stays motivated by her three new granddaughters — all born in 2023, including a set of twins.

“All of a sudden I have three little ones, and I can spoil them rotten,” she says.

– Nikki Kallio

“Surroundyourselfwithpeople

thateitherarepositiveorthatyou knowaregoingtobethereforyouno matterwhat.Iwasoverwhelmedwith theamountofsupportIhadinthe beginning,andIfeellikeeventoday, thatsupportsystemisstillthere.”

Diane Anderson

Trauma Turned My Life Around

Growing up on Chicago’s South Side, Jevon Diming experienced generational trauma: several cousins were killed by gun violence and her nephew, Pierre, was a victim of gun violence.

“My mother was a great mother, but she passed on to her children that poverty was normal,” says Diming. “She never taught us how to overcome it. She taught us how to live with it. My story is a cultural reflection of unresolved pain in the Black community.”

Her experience pushed her to found the Pierre Outreach Safe House (POSH) program in Madison in 2012. Diming, who earned a psychology degree at Edgewood College, mentors and does outreach with Black teen girls in the community.

However, Diming is working toward an even bigger goal: opening a safe house later this year for teen girls who have been referred to POSH by Dane County school districts. The house will have a unique, whole-family approach to assisting Black

teenage girls and their mothers with life skills. It’s an initiative that Diming feels would have benefitted her and her community growing up.

“Black girls intergenerationally are more likely to be overlooked … [They] are viewed as complicated, aggressive, angry and placed socially and economically last. [They] have traditionally suffered with a lack of resources that cater to their actual challenges. This has prevented Black girls from upward mobility in society… Pierre Outreach Safe House will be the strong model to create successful outcomes for girls and their mothers,” she says.

Teen girls will have access to therapy and learn about proper nutrition, study habits and career opportunities. Residents will live at the safe house Monday through Thursday, while attending school. Weekends are spent with family at home. Mothers are also provided with support.

Jevon Diming

“A lot of girls live in challenging environments. They are developing their attitudes and character within these environments,” says Diming. “Ninety percent of the reason our girls are acting up is because of school and family issues. When we come in with a co-supportive role, we’re more likely to be successful. Once our girls leave, we are a lifeline if they choose. We are not going anywhere until they say, ‘I’ve figured this out and I’m ready to fly.’ This is part of the contract between us and the family.”

In December, United Madison founder (and 2023 BRAVA Woman to Watch) Diane Hanson committed to giving Diming a portion of the $10,000 she was awarded by 100 Women Who Care. “[Diane has] been a big supporter and a trusted partner,” says Diming.

Two years ago, Diming toured the Maya Angelou Public Charter School in Washington, D.C., which provides a secure place to live for 20 students during the week. It left an indelible impression.

“They told me this is how they changed their community,” she says.

– Kristine Hansen

“TheprogramI’vedesigneddirectly reflectsmylifeandmycommunity, whoIstronglyrepresent.POSH completesthegapsthatoursocial serviceprovidershistoricallymiss.”

How I Live With Unimaginable Loss

Kristin Keir never thought on a sunny morning last September that it would be the last time she would see her partner, Dax Bakken, alive.

Bakken, a healthy 51-year-old, was about halfway through the bike portion of the Ironman Triathlon in Madison, a grueling race in which participants swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles and finish with a marathon.

Keir and their 8-year-old daughter, Maeve, waved to Bakken and swapped “I love yous” as he rode past them and turned the corner, out of sight.

A short time later, Keir got a call from an officer who informed her that they were transporting Bakken to the hospital. After he had rounded the corner, an Ironman official and off-duty police officer noticed Bakken had gotten off of his bike and sat under a tree.

Keir, Maeve and their family rushed to the hospital. Bakken was unconscious before CPR efforts were eventually ceased, and he passed away shortly afterward. Life shattered for the family, including Bakken’s two teenage sons from a prior relationship.

In the months since, Keir and Maeve have been seeing a trauma therapist. It’s helping the duo work through that traumatic day and the complicated feelings that accompany a sudden, shocking death of a partner and father. Keir also marvels at all of the “things that have gone right” since this nightmare began.

Keir and Maeve have had tremendous support from friends and family members, including child care assistance, meal and supply drop-offs, regular check-ins, donations and simply reliving memories of Bakken, who was “funny, smart as heck, and a beautiful person,” she says.

Rituals have also helped Keir and Maeve experience and process their grief. They talk about Bakken daily, look at photos and watch videos, create art to honor him and go to breakfast at Denny’s (“it’s what she and her dad always did”). Keir journals a lot as well.

As a registered nurse and case manager with Agrace Hospice Care, Keir is frequently exposed to death and grief. Still, she admits her job never prepared her for this. However, it’s given her perspective.

“I won’t lie, most days I experience devastation and heartbreak deeply. And I can be outcome oriented, but I can’t be that way with this. My goal cannot be to simply feel better. The goal is to exist in the depths of this each step of the way, whatever that looks like, as we start to experience this new life. I’m learning it’s not about moving on — I don’t think I will — it’s moving with this.”

– Shayna Mace

“I’mcomingtorealizethatgriefisa

learnedlifeskill.Wehavetolearnit. AndIhopethatI’mshowingMaeve thatit’snotaone-and-donedeal. SheandIaredoingthiseveryday together,andintime,feelingswill shiftandmorph.”

Kristin Keir

Once Homeless, Now I’m Prospering

After being stalked in Milwaukee as retaliation for reporting a sexual assault of a family member, Lai’Kita Buie knew she could no longer raise her three children there.

Fearing her family’s future while they were harassed, and facing homelessness, she called 211 in the fall of 2021 and was connected with The Road Home, a Madison nonprofit that matches families up with safe, affordable housing. Buie notes she was familiar with the organization as her sister also received assistance from The Road Home around 16 years ago.

While Buie waited for the paperwork and housing search to be completed by The Road Home, she lived with her four-year-old daughter at the YWCA in Madison. (Her two older children, ages 13 and 12, were living with their father at the time.)

“Living at the YWCA was very different. We had shared kitchens and laundry. We had assigned days that we had to clean the shared space, and there were days where I dreaded it, because … everyone doesn’t have the same way of cleaning or [a standard of] what clean is,” says Buie.

Now, Buie comes home to a brand-new apartment — she and her children are its first occupants.

“It is amazing to come from a situation where you don’t have a roof over your head to having a roof that is brand-new. There are so many people that dream of having a brand-new home,” she says.

With secure housing, her life feels grounded and stable. It’s allowed her to set goals and dream for the future.

“I didn’t get to have a lot of things growing up. [Now] I’m able to do different things for my children. Having affordable housing is allowing that in my life — it’s allowing me to be a full-time student and a part-time employee and still be able to provide for my children,” she says.

“Payitforward.Youneverknow whatmighthelpsomeoneintheir lifeandchangethecycle.”

Recently, she paid for her youngest child’s field trip to Schuster’s Farm — and paid for another student to go as a small way to give back, also serving as that child’s chaperone.

She’s earning her associate degree in art therapy at Madison College, where she’s also a part-time student RISE advisor. Reflecting on her situation, she’s determined to pay things forward.

“I am going to become an art therapist,” she says. “I am able to pursue my higher education in a field that is not only going to benefit me and my family, but others.”

– Kristine Hansen

Lai’Kita Buie

How I Thrived After Business Failure

“Figure skating taught me how to recover from failure,” says Natasha Vora, CEO of the Madison-based eyewear company Optical X. By the time she turned pro at age 16, she’d fallen — and gotten up — thousands of times. This served her well when she was denied acceptance to UW–Madison’s business school.

“An academic advisor told me I wasn’t good enough at math to succeed in business,” she says. “I was devastated, but not ready to give up.”

Hoping to network her way to a business career, Vora took a job at University Ridge Golf Course, where she met Rayovac’s CEO. Impressed by her ambition and ability to speak several languages, he hired her for the company’s Latin America division. She learned about supply chain and importing as she traveled to Chile, Venezuela and other countries. This knowledge helped her launch Indocara, a Madison retail store that sold modern Asian furniture and textiles, in 2005.

Before long, she attracted a devoted following of globetrotters and tastemakers.

“We had customers flying in from big cities to shop there,” she recalls. But Indocara’s national reputation couldn’t stop the Great Recession, which forced its closure in 2010. Vora lost her home, which she’d used as business-loan collateral, and filed for bankruptcy.

“I kept telling myself that another opportunity would come along, and soon an eyewear maker asked me to help get his brand off the ground,” she says.

That blazed Vora’s trail to founding Iristocracy, an e-commerce startup that carried luxury eyewear brands from around the world. As Iristocracy grew, so did its need for capital.

“I wasn’t in the right mindset to keep raising more money,” she says.

Instead of continuing to seek investors, Vora shuttered it in 2015, after three years. Letting that door close allowed another to open: She was hired by Rev360, an optical industry software company, to develop twelve84®, a private label eyewear brand.

Vora formed the entity Optical X and acquired twelve84® from Rev360 in January 2020. Today, it’s a profitable eyewear brand that provides independent eye doctors a quality, affordable package of frames, prescription lenses and antireflective coating for their patients.

With two business closures and a bankruptcy behind her, it’s reminded Vora that no matter what obstacles she faces, she can handle them: “When a door closes, it forces me to get creative, and I’m good at that.”

– Jessica Steinhoff

“WhenIlostmyhomeandmy

business,IremindedmyselfthatIhave whatittakestosucceed.Justbecause you’vefailed,itdoesn’tmeanyou’rea failure.Successfulpeoplefail,too.”

Natasha Vora

A CUSTOMIZED VISION

If you’ve made the decision to build a new home, you may be overwhelmed with questions. Where should you purchase a lot? Which builder should you use? What should your dream home look like?

Classic Custom Homes of Waunakee has been working with homeowners since 2005 to answer all of these questions and provide expert guidance on building a home. The company constructs homes with time-honored craftsmanship and aims to meet clients’ present and future needs for each space.

“Working with any one of our designers, your project will be overseen by a professional that will help you through the home-building process. We won’t let you make a mistake and will lend you a helping hand during meetings with vendors. This will make your selection meetings productive and keep you on track, so there are no surprises along the way,” assures Brea Bartelt, interior designer with Classic Custom Homes.

There are several other qualities that set Classic Custom Homes apart from other local builders.

Site selection and location services:

Classic Custom Homes’ staff meets every homeowner at their selected home site to go over how their residence should be positioned.

“Meeting on site at the onset of every project helps ensure that we’re not just taking the individual lot into account, but the entire surrounding area, so we’re building your dream house exactly how you’ve always envisioned it,” says Kristi Hills, construction operations coordinator.

Expert staff guidance: The Classic Custom Homes team works closely with you to custom-design your home from start to finish. The company has draftspeople on staff who work with the company’s designers to customize your home to your exact specifications.

Design inspiration galore: Classic Custom Homes’ staff has designed Parade of Homes residences for years, and envisioning those projects has given the team plenty of inspiration for home design trends. They skillfully blend their expertise with your ideas for a design you’ll love.

“Our team wants your home to be something special, and you undoubtedly have ideas of what your home should look like,” says Bartelt.

Once you decide on your home’s look and finishes, Classic Custom Homes will send your selections out to bid so they can guide you through final decisions and how to invest in your home smartly. In addition, Classic Custom Homes schedules and attends all vendor meetings, orders all of your selections and schedules all installations.

Ongoing customer service: Once your home is built, Classic Custom Homes continues to provide exemplary service. Their staff addresses all punchlist items before handing over your keys. And if you ever need help once your home is built, the company can schedule service appointments and take care of warranty items.

We really enjoy making connections with our customers and helping them from start to finish to build their home. We try to take the stress out of making difficult decisions by streamlining the process and working through their selections in a logical order.

— Brea Bartelt, interior designer

DRENCHING YOUR HOME IN COLOR

Many homeowners opt for a neutral palette throughout their home, and for good reason. It’s timeless and easier to add colorful accent pieces as they see fit.

However, making an impact with color in a particular space can be a fun and imaginative way to add pizzazz to the home without changing its entire look. Think: the same hue gracing a room’s walls, doors, trim and ceilings. Called color drenching, this painting and furnishing trend is being embraced by homeowners looking to envelop their homes in hues.

Color drenching simply involves taking one bold and intense shade to create an immersive and harmonious feeling in a space, making that color the central element to the room’s overall design.

“Color drenching is the maximalist approach to painting — and it can go beyond painting — taking one color and covering the walls, doors, ceiling and even furnishings, all in one color,” says Jessica Norskog, design engineer at Dream House Dream Kitchens. “It makes a very saturated, bold statement in any room.”

So, what colors are trending for color drenching? Norskog says it’s driven by an individual’s preference, but people are starting to embrace color, moving away from the white and off-white tones that have dominated home décor for years.

“We’re not afraid of color as much as we used to be,” Norskog says.

However, a homeowner can still color drench with neutrals if they’re hesitant to cover a space in a bold color — they could simply use shades of white, tan or gray.

“It helps to erase those heavy lines of trims and moldings,” Norskog adds.

Contrary to popular belief, painting a small space such as a powder room in one color (including the door, trim, walls and ceiling) doesn’t make the room feel smaller — it has the opposite effect.

You can also select which components of a room that you want to paint. If you prefer the doors to match the rest of the doors in your home, you can paint the

trim, ceiling and interior walls of the room, and leave the doors untouched.

For homes that are open concept, Norskog recommends carefully examining if color drenching works for the space. “Drenching … a two-story great room, for example, could be overwhelming — but a study is a great place to apply saturated color.”

When color drenching with paint, consider carrying the color theme even further and selecting matching furnishings. Using a monochromatic palette makes a bold, unifying statement.

“You could select a beautiful green color, for example, and coordinate a couch to match, which creates a very unique, timeless effect,” Norskog says. “Or if you are not fully committed to completely saturating the room in the same color, you can furnish the room in softer hues and neutrals, and add complementary accent pieces. For example, you could create an incredible green room that is accented by brass fixtures, which makes quite the statement.”

Jessica Norskog,

WE’VE GOT YOUR KEYS!

Our local mortgage team is responsive and dedicated to helping you get the keys to your new home. With underwriters, processors, and lenders all based in Dane County, we’re here to answer your questions and provide a seamless mortgage experience. Let us help you Get To Next and into your new home!

Scan here to learn more!

HOME BUYING IN TODAY’S MARKET

The real estate market is in constant flux. For several months it may be a sellers’ market, and then it can quickly shift to give homebuyers the upper hand. In addition, mortgage rates play a significant role in how vibrant or stagnant the real estate market can be.

Megan Davis, AVP senior mortgage advisor at Park Bank, has seen some relief in the interest rates this year so far, but affordability is still a challenge, especially when coupled with the limited inventory and competition for homes.

“Having a home-buying strategy is super important, and collaboration of the banker, realtor and buyer has become really key to winning the offer and setting the buyer up for success financially,” Davis says. That means it’s important to obtain a fully underwritten preapproval and work through sales price and down payment scenarios as a team, so that the buyer and the realtor are able to put their best offer presentation forward.

From a financial perspective, the most important thing a buyer can do is create a budget. “Owning a home is worth making some sacrifices for, but you don’t want to feel crunched every month,” Davis says. “Be honest with yourself about where you spend and where you can tighten things up.”

A full preapproval will require pay stubs, W2s, bank statements, and, in some cases, tax returns. Be prepared to provide those to your banker. Moving money or consolidating bank accounts can complicate the process as well.

Also start working with a mortgage professional early. Even starting the preapproval process a month or two before you want to start searching for a home can alleviate some stress.

You’ll want to consider more than rate when choosing the best loan for you.

According to Davis, a fixed-rate loan is going to offer the most security, because the interest rate will stay the same for the term of the loan. A 30-year fixed loan has the same interest rate and payment for 30 years, and the payments are spread out over that time as well. A 15-year fixed loan will generally have a lower interest rate, but the payments are spread out over 15 years, so they’re going to be higher than the 30-year option. You can always pay extra toward your loan, but never less than the minimum, so the right loan program is going to be the one that gives you the monthly payment at or below the budget number you want to stay within.

“You’re always better off taking a 30-year loan and paying it off in 17 years than taking a 15- year [loan] and falling short each month,” Davis says. “Interest rates have the potential to rise and fall, so keep in close contact with your advisor to best strategize how those moves can impact or benefit your buying strategy.”

It is important not to make any large purchases before or during the loan process. Making any changes to your financial situation after a loan is reviewed can affect the approval.

— Megan Davis, AVP senior mortgage advisor at Park Bank NMLS #633108

As

ENHANCING YOUR HOME’S EXTERIOR

a homeowner, you probably spend most of your time focusing on your home’s interior. But the exterior of your home — your roof, windows and siding — plays a vital role in keeping your home looking and functioning at its best.

Storm Guard Roofing & Construction of Madison is owned by husband-andwife team Ryan Engelbrecht and Jaime Austin. The company has been serving the community since 2003 and specializes in roofing, siding, windows, gutters and more.

“Our team of experienced professionals is committed to providing customers with the highest quality of service and workmanship,” Austin says. “We have won Best Roofer in the Best of Madison awards and are a three-year-in-a-row Neighborhood Favorite on Next Door. We are [also] a Platinum-certified Owens Corning

Contractor, which is only given to the top 1% of roofers in the country based on standards of roofing excellence.”

One thing that sets Storm Guard apart is the number of women that they employ.

“This is a male-dominated industry, and we feel that women naturally have a softer touch, an attention to detail and a strong, customer-centered approach,” Austin says. “There are no high-pressure sales techniques when you partner with Storm Guard. We believe that being the trusted expert will ... drive customers to choose us over our competitors.”

Customers have come to trust the Storm Guard team’s expert knowledge on the latest industry trends and the most innovative and durable products to enhance their homes.

We like to be proactive and uncover any additional problems with the property to help homeowners avoid large expenses before they happen. We are big believers on not over-selling the project, and providing only what they need.

— Jaime Austin, co-owner, Storm Guard Roofing & Construction

at home

INFLUENCING YOUR PALATE

Where do Madison’s food influencers like to eat?

BY KRISTINE HANSEN

We love to know where to eat, what to eat and what’s new in the Madison dining scene. Enter a hyper-local crop of influencers who love to share their foodie finds.

NICOLE HANSEN

@nicolehansenphotos

Focus: “It’s 95% food photography. Most of my audience are other photographers worldwide.”

Background: “I have been a photographer for 13 years. About five years ago I decided I wanted to get into food photography. I’m not a foodie — I am a ‘eat to live,’ not ‘live to eat’ kind of person. I know how to make food look appealing with my camera and lighting setup.”

My favorite dishes: Bar Corallini’s rigatoni alla Bolognese.

Taste of India’s chicken tikka masala and chicken kabob: “There’s some thing about the richness of the [tikka masala’s] sauce. The chicken kabob is roasted in a clay oven with mild spices and comes with rice, peppers and onions.”

Butterbird’s triple smash burger: “It reminds me of the burgers my grandma used to make — well seasoned with salt and pepper, and thinly-sliced, grilled red onions.”

Butterbird

Bar Corallini

BECK

BUBENHEIMER

@redhead.in.wisco

Focus: Affordable eats.

Background: “As a former grad student, finding affordable options for dining out is really important to me. I like to eat really great food at really great prices.”

My favorite dishes: Canteen’s crispy Brussels sprout taco, carnitas taco and Duritos. “They have, hands down, the best happy hour. Pair with a half-off frozen strawberry margarita and you have the perfect after-work activity. Oh, and the Duritos (puffed wheat wagon wheels [with] chilelime Tajin spice) are delicious!”

La Taguara’s chicken empanadas and arepa: “[They have] authentic

Venezuelan food at great prices. Don’t shy away from the green sauce. It is to die for!”

IZZY LARINI

@izzysfoodadventures

Focus: “Cuisines from all over the world, especially East Asian, Middle Eastern and Latin American.”

Background: “I am originally from Morocco, but have been in Wisconsin for about 10 years. I was the head chef at Base Camp Cafe in Mazomanie for seven years, and I cooked for Homecoming in Spring Green during the opening season. I am passionate about traveling and food!”

My favorite dishes: Harvey House’s poached pear pavlova (“I am obsessed with the pavlovas at Harvey House”), Hutong’s spicy beef bone noodle soup, Turkish Kitchen’s pirzola (charcoalgrilled lamb rack), PIKKITO’s lomo saltado bowl (Peruvian-style fajitas) and AzTec Taqueria’s birria tacos.

OTEHLIA CASSIDY

@otehliatravels

Focus: “Building relationships that foster human connection through food and culture-focused experiences, including local and international tours, events and travel planning services.”

Background: “I started out as a food blogger and wrote for Madison Magazine and wrote the newsletter for the Dane County Farmers’ Market. That’s how I started building my tour business, Otehlia Travels. I’ve always had a love for food.”

My favorite dishes: Monsoon Siam’s khao soi and sundried beef.

Heritage Tavern’s deviled eggs, beef short ribs and old-fashioned ham sandwich. “They have a great bar menu. You don’t have to have a seat in the dining space. Their old-fashioned ham sandwich on their happy hour menu is amazing, and the ham is from Fox Heritage Farms.”

Fairchild’s Brussels sprouts and miso black cod.

Canteen

Hutong

Mercado Marimar’s birria taco. “It’s a grocery store and the owners cook in back. They have a seating area and you order tacos and tortas.”

Kristine Hansen is author of “Wisconsin Cheese Cookbook: Creamy,

and Savory Recipes From the State’s Best Creameries.”

AzTec Taqueria

Cheesy, Sweet,

BEYOND DELICIOUS

A spicy new spot to check out.

BY NICOLE C.W. GRUTER

Marcia Castro knows her way around spices — crucial components in every eatery’s kitchen. She attended culinary school and has always worked in restaurants. When she was married, she and her then-husband, Patrick O’Halloran, bought Lombardino’s. With partners, they opened The Old Fashioned five years later.

In 2020, she opened The Deliciouser, collaborating with O’Halloran, his wife Michelle Oyamada and their daughter-in-law Ann Oyamada. With The Deliciouser, Castro creates smallbatch, locally-made spice blends, pairing them with uniquely curated events.

WHAT IS THE DELICIOUSER?

“We call ourselves a modern spice shop and kitchen studio. We’re a spice

company with a studio kitchen, retail space and full bar. We host themed dining events, cooking classes and collaborations with farmers, chefs, distilleries and wineries. You get to taste the spices in a way that a chef would prepare them, or in a cocktail (even while you shop!).

People loved the spices we created, but didn’t know how to use them. That’s when we decided to open the event space in 2022 and offer occasions to learn about the spice blends. A big part of our goal is for people to gather around the table. There is something special about sharing food with others.”

WHAT LED YOU TO START MAKING SPICES?

“Restaurants weren’t open during COVID, so people were cooking more

at home. We were missing good food and travel and didn’t have a product to sell. We decided this would be a great opportunity to showcase the chefquality spices Patrick was developing.”

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SPICE MIX?

“My latest favorite is our Siena salt blend made with smoked paprika and wild fennel pollen.”

WHAT DID YOU EAT FOR DINNER LAST NIGHT?

“Popcorn! In the butter, I mix in our Zócalo Spice Blend, a chili lime seasoning inspired by food in the town squares of Mexico.”

Nicole C.W. Gruter is a Madison-area professional organizer, artist and writer.

Marcia Castro

A STORIED STAY

A historic building in Waunakee starts a new chapter as a boutique hotel.

BY KATIE VAUGHN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY COURTNEY TERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

Back in the late 19th century, as Waunakee developed alongside the tracks of the Chicago and North Western Railroad, a new grain mill quickly became an integral part of the village center.

That nearly 150-year-old building has a storied past, from its mill days to a renovation in 1994 that made it the home of the Mill House Quilts shop. Now, its next chapter begins as The Mill, a six-room boutique hotel that mixes historic charm with modern-day style.

David Jacobson and Brett Bower opened the hotel in April 2023, following a 19-month process of purchasing the building, working with the village’s planning commission and taking on an extensive remodel.

The project was a dream realized for the pair, who became friends at St. Norbert College and hoped to find a way to put their respective degrees — Bower’s in accounting and Jacobson’s in marketing — into practice.

“We always wanted to be in business together,” says Jacobson, who also owns O’Pros Fishing.

It was actually in looking for a space for his fly fishing gear company that Jacobson discovered the old grain mill. “This building was just way too cool not to purchase,” he says.

And Bower, who works as a Madison firefighter, immediately recognized the potential for giving the building a new life.

“The history behind it is super cool,” he says. “This is the oldest standing building in the village. It made this the city center.”

Once again, the grain mill is helping to anchor downtown Waunakee, as the hotel provides new reasons for residents and visitors to explore Main Street’s restaurants and shops.

Nearby, guests can pop into downtown’s destinations, including The Lone

Girl Brewing Company, Red & White Winebar, Evie & Co. Boutique, Pageberry Mercantile, the Wisconsin Candle Company, Red Barn Company Store and Ooh La La.

On The Mill’s ground floor, the latest outpost of Grace Coffee Co. offers craft coffees, house-made pastries, sandwiches, and cocktails and tap beers in the evenings. Having a café on-site was always part of Bower and Jacobson’s vision for the hotel, who partnered with Middleton’s Sketchworks Architecture on the Grace Coffee space design.

“We were excited at the chance to work in a 150-year-old building to bring in not only elements of its history (and update it to current building codes),

but also marry it with Grace Coffee Co.’s modern aesthetic,” says Nick Badura, project manager with Sketchworks Architecture.

Additional guest perks include access to a cozy living room with exposed wood beams, cognac-hued leather sofas and fireplace, as well as a sunny sitting room.

The property’s six bedrooms boast one or two queen beds or a king bed, with unique features such as wood beams, barn doors and slat-wood headboards — made from 150-yearold Douglas fir repurposed from the building — differentiating the spaces. A backdrop of light wood floors, textured rugs and pillows, black and white tile, brass accents and lots of plants create

a contemporary, laid-back atmosphere.

“We designed it more like a house than a hotel,” Jacobson says, adding that his wife Katie and Bower’s wife Abby took the lead on the décor.

And they included nods to the building’s past, such as books about the mill’s history in each room and old framed blueprints on the walls.

It’s all about creating a special experience for guests, adding to the growing energy in downtown Waunakee and ensuring that a historic building continues to be a part of it.

“History was a big piece for us, a huge driver,” says Jacobson. “We just wanted to add to the story.”

Vaughn is a Madison-area freelance writer.

Katie

TWELVE CAN’T - MISS ARTS EVENTS

BY JESSICA STEINHOFF

THEATER, DANCE AND COMEDY

MADISON BALLET’S “TIMELESS”

April 11-14, Overture Center

Witness a world premiere by Artistic Director Ja’ Malik, who tackles the second act of “Giselle,” a touching tale of heartbreak and redemption. madisonballet.org

UNIVERSITY THEATRE’S “ORLANDO”

April18-28, UW-Madison’s Vilas Hall, Mitchell Theatre

A poet travels through time, hopping continents and changing genders, in a quest for true love and the perfect verse. Are these goals realistic, and do they have to be to yield great art?

Ponder these questions and more as Virginia Woolf’s novel comes to life on stage. theatre.wisc.edu

KANOPY DANCE’S “CONFLUENCE: A PRELUDE”

April 19-21, Overture Center

Madison’s modern dance troupe launches a multi-season collaboration with local composer Michael Bell, debuting works set to “Regeneration: A Pentology,” a symphony that celebrates the restorative power of connecting with the natural environment. kanopydance.org

CHARLIE BERENS: GOOD OLD FASHIONED TOUR

April 25 & 26, Orpheum Theater

The “Manitowoc Minute” creator’s funny videos are his bread and butter, but writing is also his jam (pardon the

pun). His New York Times bestseller, “The Midwest Survival Guide,” launched three stand-up comedy tours, including the one that brings him to the Orpheum this spring. madisonorpheum.com

MUSIC AND FILM

SLEATER - KINNEY: LITTLE ROPE TOUR

March 22,

The Sylvee

Aftershowcasing her comedic chops on“Portlandia” throughoutthe2010s,Carrie Brownstein has pursued darker themes with her riot grrrl band in the 2020s. Their new album, “Little Rope,” explores her grief following the 2022 car accident that killed her mother and stepfather. thesylvee.com

Charlie Berens

Fiesta Finale

music

José Pablo Moncayo, Huapango

Manuel Ponce, Piano Concerto No. 1

Silvestre Revueltas,

*Suite from La Noche de los Mayas (The Night of the Maya), compiled by José Yves Limantour

*Synchronized imagery by Peter Rodgers selections by

Mariachi Los Camperos and the Madison Symphony Orchestra

JOHN DEMAIN, Conductor

JORGE FEDERICO OSORIO, Piano

MARIACHI LOS CAMPEROS

MAJOR SPONSORS:

Madison Media Partners

Irving & Dorothy Levy Family Foundation, Inc.

Carla and Fernando Alvarado

Joe and Mary Ellyn Sensenbrenner

ADDITIONAL SPONSORS:

Patricia Brady and Robert Smith, The Burish Group at UBS

DeWitt LLP, Mary Lang Sollinger, Wisconsin Arts Board

Cinco de Mayo served as an inspirational springboard for this unique concert celebrating Mexican music and heritage. The concert opens with José Pablo Moncayo’s Huapango , a lively and joyful tribute to the popular music of the Mexican state of Veracruz. Then, I am thrilled to welcome Mexican pianist Jorge Federico Osorio as he makes his MSO debut performing Manuel Ponce’s romantic Piano Concerto No. 1

Silvestre Revueltas is one of the giants among Mexican composers, and I am very excited to introduce to you his suite from the movie La Noche de Los Mayas , featuring a multimedia presentation of Mayan art. And finally, a great mariachi ensemble Mariachi Los Camperos will play selections of Mexican songs with the Madison Symphony. A truly unique concert designed to lift your spirits and bring my 30th anniversary celebration to a rousing and joyful finale. – John DeMain, Music Director

El Cinco de Mayo sirve como la inspiración para este concierto único que celebra la música y herencia mexicana. El concierto empieza con Huapango , compuesto por José Pablo Moncayo, y es un animado y alegre homenaje a la música popular del estado mexicano de Veracruz. Luego, acogimos al pianista Jorge Federico Osorio y su debut en Madison, tocando el primer concierto de Manuel Ponce. Silvestre Revueltas es uno de los compositores mexicanos más famosos, y estoy muy entusiasmado de presentar su Suite de la película La Noche de los Mayas , acompañado por una presentación multimedia del arte maya. Y finalmente, el fabuloso mariachi, Mariachi Los Camperos, tocará selecciones de canciones mexicanas con nuestra propia sinfonía. Este concierto especial está diseñado para levantar el ánimo y celebrar mis 30 años como director con una gran y jubilosa culminación. – John DeMain, Director Musical

madisonsymphony.org/fiesta

PHOTO: Todd Rosenberg

IAN

MASKIN: CELLO FOR PEACE TOUR

April 4, Art + Literature Lab

This Russian-born, Chicago-based cellist and composer has collaborated with artists ranging from Andrea Bocelli to Snoop Dogg. His Madison tour stop will raise funds for Ukrainian war-relief efforts. artlitlab.org

WISCONSIN FILM FESTIVAL

April 4-11, multiple venues

In the age of streaming video, a trip to the cinema is a rare treat for many of us. Here’s a chance to get your big-screen fix for an entire week. There will be at least seven spots to enjoy festival films in 2024, now that East Towne Mall’s Flix Brewhouse and UW-Madison’s Music Hall have joined the venue lineup. Double the fun by attending filmmaker talks and casting your ballot for the Audience Choice Award. wifilmfest.org

“HARRY POTTER AND THE HALFBLOOD PRINCE” IN CONCERT

April 6, Overture Center

Grab your Gryffindor scarf and your favorite young filmgoers for an epic screening of the Harry Potter film, made extra magical by a Madison Symphony Orchestra performance. harrypotterinconcert.com

ALVVAYS

April 24, The Sylvee

This Canadian band pairs chiming guitars and dreamy, ’60s-esque pop melodies with thoroughly modern lyrics about messy relationships and the power of perspective. thesylvee.com

FIERCE, FUNNY FEMALES

Three of America’s most hilarious ladies are coming to town, and they won’t leave until you’re in stitches.

ILANA GLAZER

March 14, Orpheum Theater

A study in extroversion gone awry, Glazer’s “Broad City” character made her a star, led to scene-stealing performances on “Sesame Street” and helped her build Generator Collective, an Instagram-powered platform that helps people “talk about politics without feeling foolish.” Since then, she has also experienced the wonders and weirdness of pregnancy, a topic she explores in both her stand-up and “False Positive,” the 2021 horror film she starred in and co-wrote. madisonorpheum.com

JESSICA KIRSON

April 19, Barrymore Theatre

Kirson shines at creating over-thetop characters, several of whom

appear on “The Call Girls,” an album of prank calls recorded during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Her talents also extend to the silver screen: She produced the FX documentary “Hysterical,” which explores the trials and triumphs of fellow funnywomen Margaret Cho, Chelsea Handler and Fortune Feimster. barrymorelive.com

KATHY GRIFFIN

April 21, Overture Center

As fearless as she is funny, Griffin pushes the envelope with her parodies of Hollywood divas and no-holds-barred cultural commentary. Though a controversial photo shoot with a Donald Trump mask cost her gigs such as co-hosting CNN’s New Year’s Eve celebration with Anderson Cooper, her “My Life on the PTSD-List” tour proves that no one puts her in a corner. overture.org

Jessica Stehinhoff is a Madison-area mom, writer and mental health professional.

Ilana Glazer

Jessica Kirson

Ian Maskin

Kathy Griffin

EXPLORING THE OLD AND NEW | Top left: A place for all things kitchsy, quirky and vintage, Retro Revolution is a fascinating shop. Find glassware, collectibles, records, vintage bar memorabilia and more (P. 44). Right: Natasha Vora shared her story of past business failures and how she’s thriving once again in a new venture (P. 60) . Bottom: Shaina Robbins Papach and Joe Papach of The Harvey House recently opened Butterbird, a restaurant serving up rotisserie and fried chicken (P. 69).

2024 WOMEN TO WATCH

CELEBRATION

Join BRAVA Magazine for an evening of networking, food and drink, and recognizing our new honorees

5:30-8 p.m. | Tuesday, April 16, 2024

Plenary Room, Grainger Hall, UW-Madison

Scan me for tickets! RSVP by April 2.

Event Sponsored by