Pageants and Accents
In this episode of Nostalgia Street, hosts Vince and Jeff welcome Heather Kittleson, founder of Fortitude, as their special guest. Heather shares childhood memories, and stories that shaped who she is today.
The episode kicks off with a fun and spontaneous question from Vince: "If you could recast a beloved cartoon with live-action actors today, who would you choose?" Heather picks Looney Tunes and humorously imagines herself as the Roadrunner, with Jeff as Elmer Fudd. The conversation is filled with laughter as they envision other characters being played by friends and family members.
Heather shares her early years growing up in the Ozarks of Missouri. Born in Mansfield and later moving to Ava, Heather paints a picture of life in the countryside. She recounts the simplicity and beauty of nature, with winding roads, tree canopies, and days spent playing on the family farm. Her childhood stories include riding four-wheelers, building forts, and snowy days leading to school cancellations.
Heather describes the dynamics of growing up with three older brothers, sharing both the rough-and-tumble moments and the deep bonds they formed. Moving to Minnesota in the third grade brought a new set of challenges and adjustments. Heather recalls the strong accent she had and how her family was often teased for it. Despite these challenges, she quickly made friends and adjusted to her new environment, showcasing her resilient and friendly nature.
Listeners get a glimpse into farm life, where Heather spent time in the milking barn with her father, a farmer and former probation officer. From being accidentally hit by a shovel to manipulating her brothers into doing her chores, her anecdotes highlight the playful and sometimes mischievous nature of sibling relationships.
Heather takes us back to her high school days in Slayton, where weekends were spent in the unique tradition of "pounding laps." Friends would drive from one end of town to the other, making U-turns at Pizza Ranch and catching up with each other in the middle of the street. This routine, filled with loud music and laughter, created lasting memories.
From dancing to Vanilla Ice's "Ice Ice Baby" to adoring classics like "Grease," "Footloose," and "Dirty Dancing," these cultural touchstones shaped her teenage years. Raised in a Christian home, her media consumption was carefully monitored, but sleepovers brought the occasional thrill of horror films.
Heather's aspirations took her to Marshall College and then to Mankato State, where she pursued aviation with dreams of joining the Air Force. However, an injury during her high school years and subsequent setbacks redirected her path. Despite the challenges, including a stress fracture and a broken foot, Heather embraced college life, eventually earning a degree in elementary education.
After graduation, Heather moved to Minneapolis and immersed herself in the corporate world as an executive assistant. She describes her experiences working in the towering IDS building and navigating the city's bustling streets.
Heather candidly shares her battle with alcoholism, which intensified after the birth of her fourth child. Struggling with postpartum depression, she turned to alcohol, leading to a downward spiral that nearly cost her life. In December 2019, she reached rock bottom but was saved by her husband's intuition. His decision to come home that day prevented her from taking drastic measures.
Heather's recovery journey began at Woodstock treatment center, and by January 2020, she returned home, just before the onset of COVID-19. The pandemic provided a unique opportunity for her to reconnect with her family and embrace sobriety. Heather's story is one of redemption and resilience, offering hope and inspiration to others facing similar battles.
Today, Heather is passionate about breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction. She advocates for education and awareness, aiming to plant seeds of knowledge and support for those in need. Her upcoming event in September focuses on empowering young girls and their guardians with the tools and understanding to navigate life's challenges.
Heather Kittelson's story is a testament to the power of vulnerability and community. Her journey from small-town weekends to overcoming personal demons offers valuable lessons and encouragement for anyone facing their own struggles.
Connect with Heather:
Learn more about the Fortitude Podcast:
Learn more about 4Front Studios and connect with us on social media!
114 S Main Ave Unit 220, Sioux Falls, SD 57104