Episode 96 - Deanna Springer – The Great Wisconsin Quilt Show, 20 Years of Honoring the Legacy of Nancy Zieman

In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome back Deanna Springer. Deanna was a close collaborator with the legendary Nancy Zieman, co-founding Nancy Zieman Productions in 2007. Together, they launched a blog, social media channels, and over 40 sewing and quilting products, as well as produced 12 seasons of Sewing with Nancy.

Today, Deanna carries Nancy's remarkable legacy forward, sharing their love of sewing with the world through the Great Wisconsin Quilt Show and other initiatives. In our conversation, Deanna reflects on her journey with Nancy, the impact of the Quilt Show, and the vibrant quilting community she’s passionate about supporting. We’ll also explore the ways Deanna continues to inspire and uplift others through her work and community projects like Quilt to Give.

(2:02) For those who haven’t met yet…Deanna tells us about her history in the sewing industry and how she met Nancy Zieman. It’s certainly been an amazing life!

(3:33) The Sewing with Nancy Show started in Nancy’s home in 1984…Deanna tells us how it all started.

(4:15) So, how did this 25-year long TV show evolve to The Great Wisconsin Quilt Show! Well, 4H had a big part of it all! And Nancy was certainly a woman ahead of her time!

(7:35) Deanna talks about how the Nancy Zieman Team is carrying on Nancy’s legacy.

(9:42) Deanna tells us about The quilt to Give Program spearheaded by Nancy and how you can get involved.

(11:05) After 20 years, how has the show evolved? Deanna who has been present tear walks us through the transformation. Oh, and Nancy really did teach Bucky Badger to sew!

(14:42) Deanna reflects on pieces of advice that Nancy Zieman shared with her and how this advice has helped her throughout life.

(16:12) How has Deanna seen the sewing and quilting community evolve? It’s the community…it’s people helping people.

(17:08) What are the challenges and rewards Deanna has experienced in carrying on Nancy’s legacy?

(18:10) Deanna’s two sisters now work with her teaching sewing through video. Learn about The Stitch It! Sisters. And hear about the great things that came out of the pandemic.

(21:34) Does Deanna see a difference between long time sewists and those new to the industry? She walks through the differences she sees in the different generations.

(23:36) What are some of Deanna’s most memorable moments of the past 20 years at The Great Wisconsin Quilt Show?

(25:50) In all she does, what is Deanna most personally proud of? She points out the vibe created by all who attend.

(27:04) For those who didn’t have the honor of knowing Nancy Zieman, what’s one thing they should know about her? Deanna’s response…grace.

(27:49) What’s coming up for the next Great Wisconsin Quilt Show. You have to keep things unique and interesting…but you have to keep it the same!  Oh and…do you want to volunteer? Find out how!

(28:53) Is there a question I missed?

It’s profoundly moving to hear Deanna Springer reflect on the legacy of Nancy Zieman, whose spirit truly embodies the heart of the Great Wisconsin Quilt Show. Nancy lived with a genuine humility that touched everyone she met, teaching and inspiring with a grace that resonates through each stitch and seam showcased here. It's a profound honor for us to bring you aa conversation that celebrates her life’s work, touching the hearts of all who gather. Thank you for joining us in this special tribute to Nancy’s enduring legacy. Our deepest thanks to Deanna for taking the time to talk with us.

And there you have it – another story about a very special someone who dedicated their life’s work to Quilters around the world. Someone for whom quilting is so much more than a hobby…it’s a way of life…a connection to something bigger.

If you know someone you think has an outstanding story – a story that should be shared on this podcast, please drop me a note to meg@sew&sewpodcast.com  or complete the form on our website.

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