Season 8

Steph and the Customers

Sara Kim Hopkins, Aaron Zhang

After losing her husband, Stephanie finds solace and support through interactions with customers at her fishing store.

Documentary

Comforting

Why we chose this film.

This film reminds us that meaningful everyday interactions, however small, can be a lifeline, helping people navigate challenging emotions like grief, loneliness, and disconnection.

Filmmaker

Inspiration

We, like many other visitors of Gus’ Discount Tackle, were struck by owner Stephanie Ernst’s welcoming and kind personality. The success of her small family business lies behind the her graciousness and community-minded nature. The store is just like her: small, quirky, and endlessly fun.

While interviewing Stephanie, she revealed the large place that her husband, Bill, used to have in her life and still occupies in her heart. Grieving can be a never-ending process, and his death was extremely difficult for her.

Gus’ Discount Tackle and the many customers from all walks of life prove to be an essential comfort to her. Through daily interactions with friends new and old, Stephanie is able to keep moving forward.