About this episode
Some things are worth gathering for, and in Council Grove, Kansas, that has been true since the days of the Santa Fe Trail.
In this episode, Derek's wife, Kerri, takes over the host seat as she sits down with Nicky Tiffany, owner of the Territory Ballroom in Council Grove. They talk about how a historic trailhead town became a modern hub for rural community, and how Nicky reimagined the Gathering in the Grove as a showcase for Western women artists.
Nicky has turned a fading fine art show into an event that celebrates handmade Western art, from silversmithing and leatherwork to pottery and upholstery, made by women who are raising families and working in agriculture across the Flint Hills.
They preview this year's Gathering in the Grove, which is happening on November 13 & 14, 2026. The event features keynote speaker Danna Larson of Rural Revival and a live and online auction of a one-of-a-kind chair made collaboratively by the artists. Proceeds go to a new fund that offers grants to help rural women grow their craft.
In this episode
- How and why Nicky turned a fading fine art show into a celebration of Western women artists
- The courage it takes for rural women to put their craft in front of others, and why these traditional skills are worth passing down before they fade
- Why "women need women"
- The power of small-town dreamers carrying the West forward
- The details of the event, Gathering in the Grove
Resources & links
Meet Nicky
Nicky Tiffany is an entrepreneur, ranch woman, hospitality owner, leadership coach, and mom of five based in the Flint Hills of Kansas. She owns The Territory Ballroom, a historic venue dedicated to creating meaningful experiences through celebrations, retreats, and hospitality, while also homeschooling. Passionate about leadership, rural communities, western heritage, and authentic relationships, Nicky believes the greatest legacy isn't what we build — it's the people we impact along the way.
Connect with Nicky
- Nicky's website
- Instagram @theterritoryballroom
- Instagram @ntiffany1
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