Ep. 67 – Made in the Flathead: Fiber Reaper’s Manufacturing Innovation

A small clamp is making a big impact in Montana manufacturing. Founder Amber Pacheco Holm of Fiber Reaper, and her husband, Jeremy, turned a simple field frustration into a breakthrough tool now used by fiber splicing crews across the country. Built and tested in the Flathead Valley, her redesigned clamp helps technicians work faster, safer, and with greater precision. Through local partnerships with the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center, the Montana High-Tech Business Alliance, and area suppliers, Fiber Reaper transformed an idea sketched in a Kalispell workshop into a production-ready product—100% Made in the USA and proudly built in Northwest Montana. Tune in to learn the Fiber Reaper story!

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Ep. 67 – Made in the Flathead: Fiber Reaper’s Manufacturing Innovation podcast image

Ep. 67 – Made in the Flathead: Fiber Reaper’s Manufacturing Innovation

A small clamp is making a big impact in Montana manufacturing. Founder Amber Pacheco Holm of Fiber Reaper, and her husband, Jeremy, turned a simple field frustration into a breakthrough tool now used by fiber splicing crews across the country. Built and tested in the Flathead Valley, her redesigned clamp helps technicians work faster, safer, and with greater precision. Through local partnerships with the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center, the Montana High-Tech Business Alliance, and area suppliers, Fiber Reaper transformed an idea sketched in a Kalispell workshop into a production-ready product—100% Made in the USA and proudly built in Northwest Montana. Tune in to learn the Fiber Reaper story!

Ep. 66 – Beyond Capacity: The Need for a New Flathead County Detention Center podcast image

Ep. 66 – Beyond Capacity: The Need for a New Flathead County Detention Center

Sheriff Brian Heino doesn't mince words about Flathead County's jail crisis. The 1987 facility is bursting at the seams, with failing systems, inadequate space, and mounting safety concerns. With over two decades of law enforcement experience, Sheriff Heino offers a compelling insider's perspective on why a new detention center represents not just a building project, but a fundamental community investment.

Ep. 65 – Kyle Waterman: Candidate for Kalispell City Council Ward 3 podcast image

Ep. 65 – Kyle Waterman: Candidate for Kalispell City Council Ward 3

Kyle Waterman, downtown business owner and former city councilor, is running for Kalispell City Council Ward 3. In this conversation, he shares how his past council experience and decades of community leadership shape his vision for a growing, business-friendly Kalispell.

Ep. 64 – Kisa Davison: Candidate for Mayor of Kalispell podcast image

Ep. 64 – Kisa Davison: Candidate for Mayor of Kalispell

Meet Kisa Davison, Kalispell mayoral candidate and recipient of the Kalispell Chamber’s endorsement. She joins Drew Zagorski to share her journey from business owner and community leader to candidate for mayor.

Ep. 63 – Pathways Beyond Prison: The Flathead Valley Reentry Center podcast image

Ep. 63 – Pathways Beyond Prison: The Flathead Valley Reentry Center

Join host Drew Zagorski as he sits down with Brian Gootkin, Director of the Montana Department of Corrections, and Jim Sanderson, Operations Manager of the new Flathead Valley Reentry Center, for a revealing conversation about how we reintegrate formerly incarcerated individuals back into society. This isn't just another corrections facility – it's Montana's first-ever state-run reentry center.

Ep. 62 – Keeping Montana Wild with MT Fish, Wildlife and Parks podcast image

Ep. 62 – Keeping Montana Wild with MT Fish, Wildlife and Parks

Montana’s outdoor recreation supports billions in spending while protecting landscapes, wildlife, and local traditions. Amber Steed, Region 1 Supervisor for Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP), talks with the podcast about managing these resources and highlights new public access projects, including Somers Beach State Park and expanded fishing areas near Flathead Lake.

Ep. 61 – Flathead County Fairgrounds & the NWMT Fair podcast image

Ep. 61 – Flathead County Fairgrounds & the NWMT Fair

This episode of the Venture Boldly podcast takes listeners behind the scenes of the Flathead County Fairgrounds—an iconic 60-acre hub in Kalispell that hosts over 750 events and draws more than 250,000 visitors each year. While many know it as home to the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo, the fairgrounds serve as a year-round space for community, culture, and connection.

Ep. 60 -Flathead Lake Biological Station: Preserving Our Natural Treasure podcast image

Ep. 60 -Flathead Lake Biological Station: Preserving Our Natural Treasure

Flathead Lake’s clean waters and mountain views aren’t just beautiful—they’re essential to our region’s economy, culture, and future. For over 100 years, the Flathead Lake Biological Station has worked to protect one of America’s cleanest lakes. Join us as Tom Bansak, Associate Director, shares how the station's work in science and education helps to preserve the integrity of our region's waters and more.

Ep. 59- Lemonade Day Champions: Two Sisters’ Recipe for Success podcast image

Ep. 59- Lemonade Day Champions: Two Sisters’ Recipe for Success

"Young entrepreneurs can teach us all a thing or two about business," is the lesson that shines through in my conversation with Parker and Lucy, the young founders of Two Sisters Lemonade and winners of the 2024 Youth Entrepreneurship Award for Lemonade Day Flathead. Over three years of participation, these sisters have transformed from novices with a simple setup to savvy business owners making strategic decisions about products, branding, and customer service. Parker summarizes the entrepreneurial mindset perfectly: "If something goes wrong or something doesn't go right, just get back up and try it again."

Ep. 58 – Building the Flathead, with Bill Goldberg, Compass Construction podcast image

Ep. 58 – Building the Flathead, with Bill Goldberg, Compass Construction

What does it take to build a construction company that shapes a community? Bill Goldberg, founder of Compass Construction, shares how he went from a 20-year-old entrepreneur to a leader in Flathead Valley development.

Ep. 57- Catapult Your Career with the Kalispell Chamber podcast image

Ep. 57- Catapult Your Career with the Kalispell Chamber

Ready to transform your professional trajectory? The Discover Kalispell Chamber unveils Catapult Collective, an innovative leadership and career development program poised to revolutionize how professionals grow in the Flathead Valley. Catapult Collective serves professionals at every career stage—from emerging leaders to seasoned executives contemplating retirement.

Ep. 56 – The Wachholz College Center: Bringing World-Class Entertainment to Montana’s Flathead Valley podcast image

Ep. 56 – The Wachholz College Center: Bringing World-Class Entertainment to Montana’s Flathead Valley

Join us as Matt Laughlin, Director of the Wachholz College Center at Flathead Valley Community College, takes us behind the curtain of Kalispell's premier performing arts venue. Matt, a Montana native who returned home after 14 years at Seattle's Benaroya Hall, shares how this community-funded facility has transformed the cultural landscape of the Flathead Valley in just over two years.

Ep. 55 – Exploring the Historic Conrad Mansion with Brit Clark, Executive Director podcast image

Ep. 55 – Exploring the Historic Conrad Mansion with Brit Clark, Executive Director

The Conrad Mansion, built in 1895 by Kalispell founder Charles Conrad, is a well-preserved Victorian home that offers a rare, authentic view of Montana’s past. Under the leadership of Executive Director Brit Clark, the Conrad Mansion Museum shares the story of Conrad’s journey from a river freighter in Virginia to a prominent businessman in Montana, influenced by a strategic tip from James J. Hill about the Great Northern Railway’s route.

Ep. 54 – Montana’s Economic Pulse: Labor Trends & Workforce Insights with State Economist, Amy Watson podcast image

Ep. 54 – Montana’s Economic Pulse: Labor Trends & Workforce Insights with State Economist, Amy Watson

Join us as Montana State Economist, Amy Watson, paints a picture of what's driving this growth and the challenges that come with it. Montana's economy is booming. Labor force numbers have pushed total workforce to over 579,000 people, with nearly 50,000 jobs added since COVID-19 began reshaping our economic landscape. The Flathead Valley stands out with even more impressive growth – outpacing state averages with 2.8% labor force expansion last year alone. Want to dive deeper into Montana's economic data? Tune in for Amy's insights into growth, challenges, and opportunities for our Flathead Valley economy.

Ep. 53 – This Levy Matters: What’s at Stake for the Future of Kalispell Education podcast image

Ep. 53 – This Levy Matters: What’s at Stake for the Future of Kalispell Education

Join us as we tackle a pressing topic impacting Kalispell Public Schools—the upcoming high school levy vote. This episode features enlightening discussions with Matt Jensen, Superintendent, and Jinn Merriman, a dedicated school board trustee and parent. Together, we explore how this levy directly affects our students, families, and community as a whole.

Ep. 52 – Leadership Lessons with Phil Quigley podcast image

Ep. 52 – Leadership Lessons with Phil Quigley

Ever wondered how military training influences leadership in the corporate world? In this episode, we welcome Phil Quigley, a Marine Corps veteran and seasoned consultant, who shares his insights on leadership drawn from his diverse career across various industries. Phil’s unique journey—from pioneering roles at Atari and Yahoo to his work with veterans—provides a compelling narrative about the intersection of military discipline and effective business leadership.

Ep. 51 – Cultivating Personal Leadership with Sherrie Patterson podcast image

Ep. 51 – Cultivating Personal Leadership with Sherrie Patterson

Sherry walks us through the core questions that leaders need to ask to achieve clarity and drive real results. From navigating the uncertainties faced by business owners in the Flathead Valley to enhancing whole-person development, Sherry offers valuable insights that resonate in today's rapidly evolving environment.

Ep. 50 – 2024 Discover Kalispell Chamber Ambassador of the Year: Mark Freidline, Executive Officer, Flathead Building Association podcast image

Ep. 50 – 2024 Discover Kalispell Chamber Ambassador of the Year: Mark Freidline, Executive Officer, Flathead Building Association

What if you could transform your community through the power of leadership and collaboration? Join us on Venture Boldly as we feature the inspiring journey of Mark Friedline, the 2024 Discover Kalispell Chamber Ambassador of the Year. In our engaging conversation, Mark shares his path from being the Executive Officer of the Flathead Building Association to championing various local initiatives

Ep. 49 – 2024 Businessperson of the Year: Mike Smith & 2024 Legacy Partner Award Winner: Glacier Bank podcast image

Ep. 49 – 2024 Businessperson of the Year: Mike Smith & 2024 Legacy Partner Award Winner: Glacier Bank

Ever wondered how a bank can shape a community beyond financial transactions? Mike Smith, Glacier Bank's Market President, joins us as we discuss recent accolades, including being awarded the Discover Kalispell's 2024 Businessperson of the Year and Glacier Bank’s honor as the Legacy Partner of the Year.

Ep. 48 – 2024 Educator of the Year, Jen Stein, Principal of Edgerton Elementary podcast image

Ep. 48 – 2024 Educator of the Year, Jen Stein, Principal of Edgerton Elementary

Jen Stein, the inspiring 2024 Discover Kalispell Chamber Educator of the Year, shares her journey from a school-loving child to a pioneering elementary school principal. Her personal experiences have deeply influenced her leadership style, making her a prominent advocate for inclusive education. Jen reveals her commitment to creating supportive environments where every student feels cherished and valued, underlining the power of community and teamwork in fostering a sense of belonging among students and educators alike.

Ep. 47- 2024 Rising Star Award Winner – Sam Torgerson, Three Dog Ranch podcast image

Ep. 47- 2024 Rising Star Award Winner – Sam Torgerson, Three Dog Ranch

Sam Torgerson's inspiring journey from kennel attendant to general manager and part owner of a board and train facility is nothing short of remarkable. We sat down with Sam, the Discover Kalispell Chamber's 2024 Rising Star Award winner, to uncover how her passion for animals and relentless dedication has propelled her into a leading role in animal care.

Ep. 46 – 2024 Non-Profit of the Year Winner: Whitefish Community Foundation, President & CEO Alan Davis podcast image

Ep. 46 – 2024 Non-Profit of the Year Winner: Whitefish Community Foundation, President & CEO Alan Davis

Whitefish Community Foundation, recently celebrated as the 2024 Kalispell Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit of the Year, is leading the way in giving back to the Flathead Valley community. Join us as we unlock the secrets behind their success, with insights from Alan Davis, the foundation's President and CEO.

Ep. 45 – 2024 Large Business of the Year Award: AJ King, CEO & Chairman, Three Rivers Bank of Montana podcast image

Ep. 45 – 2024 Large Business of the Year Award: AJ King, CEO & Chairman, Three Rivers Bank of Montana

Celebrating their recent accolade as the Discover Kalispell Chamber's 2024 Large Business of the Year, AJ reflects on the enduring influence of his father, Jack King, and how those foundational values of kindness and community involvement continue to steer the bank toward success. Despite the digital age, Three Rivers Bank stands firm in its commitment to personalized service and local decision-making, ensuring they remain a trusted, relationship-driven institution.

Ep. 44 – Community Spirit Award Winner, Sue Corrigan podcast image

Ep. 44 – Community Spirit Award Winner, Sue Corrigan

Discover the transformative journey of Sue Corrigan, the remarkable 2024 recipient of the Discover Kalispell Chamber Community Spirit Award. As a dedicated community leader, Sue shares her inspiring path with us, including her impact as a special needs teacher and her involvement with organizations like the Glacier Conservancy and the Montana State School Board Association.

Ep. 43 – 2024 Small Business of the Year Award: Mireille Bierens, Owner, Mountain Physical Therapy & Fitness Center podcast image

Ep. 43 – 2024 Small Business of the Year Award: Mireille Bierens, Owner, Mountain Physical Therapy & Fitness Center

Join us as we meet with Mireille Bierens, the owner of Mountain Physical Therapy and Fitness Center and the 2024 Small Business of the Year Award winner. Mireille shares her story of her move from the Netherlands to the Flathead and career journey that lead her to become the owner of her physical therapy business.

Ep. 42 – 2024 Flathead Legacy Award Winner, Dan Dickman podcast image

Ep. 42 – 2024 Flathead Legacy Award Winner, Dan Dickman

Discover the remarkable journey of Dan Dickman, the 2024 Flathead Legacy Award winner, whose path to nursing began with an unexpected dare and whose life took a transformative turn after a severe accident. Dan's story is a testament to the power of empathy and leadership. Join us as Dan reflects on his four-decade-long career in nursing, including 30 impactful years with the Flathead County Health Department, and his steadfast commitment to community service.

Ep. 41 – Flathead Technology: An Interview with Kalispell Applied Materials’ General Manager, Brian Aegerter podcast image

Ep. 41 – Flathead Technology: An Interview with Kalispell Applied Materials’ General Manager, Brian Aegerter

The semiconductor industry has a long history in Kalispell, thanks to Semitool which was acquired by Applied Materials in 2010. Our special guest, Brian Aegerter, General Manager of Kalispell Applied Materials, shares the how the bold move to establish a semiconductor industry in the Flathead has created a thriving high-tech sector and opened doors for future growth opportunities.

Ep. 40 – The Headwaters Tech Hub with Dr. Tim VanReken, Executive Director and Regional Innovation Officer podcast image

Ep. 40 – The Headwaters Tech Hub with Dr. Tim VanReken, Executive Director and Regional Innovation Officer

Discover how Montana is blazing a trail in tech innovation with the dynamic Headwaters Tech Hub (HTH). We sit down with Dr. Tim VanReken, the visionary Executive Director and Regional Innovation Officer of the HTH. We uncover the strategic impact of the Chips and Science Act and a transformative $41 million boost from the US Department of Commerce, setting Montana on a path to become a leader in smart photonic sensing systems. From Bozeman to the Flathead Valley, learn how this initiative is poised to reshape the state’s tech industry by minimizing business hurdles and invigorating manufacturing.

Ep. 39 – Our Kids. Our Future. An interview with Matt Jensen, Superintendent Kalispell Public Schools podcast image

Ep. 39 – Our Kids. Our Future. An interview with Matt Jensen, Superintendent Kalispell Public Schools

Matt Jensen, the new superintendent of Kalispell Public Schools, shares his vision for the district, including a focus on personalized competency-based education to empower students and enhance learning outcomes. Through this engaging podcast, we dive into school finance, enrollment, charter schools, work-based learning and more. Listen and learn how Kalispell Public Schools tackles challenges and brings new opportunities to our students and community.

Ep. 38 – Wheaton’s Cycle: Riding Into a 2nd Century of Business in Downtown Kalispell podcast image

Ep. 38 – Wheaton’s Cycle: Riding Into a 2nd Century of Business in Downtown Kalispell

Ever wondered how a 15-year-old BMX enthusiast evolves into the proud owner of a century-old bike shop? Meet Hans Axelsen, the passionate powerhouse behind Wheaton's Cycle in Kalispell. Hans shares his story and the history of Wheaton's Cycle along with insights into local trails and operating a legacy business in downtown Kalispell.

EP. 37 – From River to Grid: Hydropower’s Impact on NWMT Energy podcast image

EP. 37 – From River to Grid: Hydropower’s Impact on NWMT Energy

What if over 80% of your region's electricity came from a single source? Join us on Venture Boldly as we explore the profound impact of hydropower in Northwest Montana with our guest, Clark Mather, Executive Director of Northwest RiverPartners. Discover how this renewable energy powerhouse, hydropower, fuels the local economy and provides clean, reliable electricity to communities in Kalispell and Flathead Valley.

Ep. 36 – Flying into the Future: GPIA Growth & Expansion with Rob Ratkowski, Airport Director podcast image

Ep. 36 – Flying into the Future: GPIA Growth & Expansion with Rob Ratkowski, Airport Director

There's a massive transformation happening at Glacier Park International Airport. Airport Director Rob Ratkowski provides an insider's look at the ambitious expansion project. With the airport nearly tripling in size to 210,000 square feet, you'll get a front-row seat to the exciting new amenities, including the Goat Haunt Saloon, outdoor patio spaces, and the Flathead Valley's first escalators. Learn how these enhancements, set for completion in June 2026 with phased openings, will revolutionize the passenger experience and meet the growing demand.

Ep. 35 – Get to Know Glacier Institute with Anthony Nelson podcast image

Ep. 35 – Get to Know Glacier Institute with Anthony Nelson

As the official education partner of Glacier National Park and Flathead National Forest, the Glacier Institute offers an array of programs that bring people of all ages, both locals and visitors alike, closer to nature. From guided hikes to hands-on educational experiences at the Big Creek Outdoor Education Center, Executive Director Anthony Nelson shares how these initiatives are fostering a lifelong love of the environment, especially for youth encountering nature for the first time.

EP. 34 – Leadership & Service with Miss Montana USA 2023, Mady Rigg podcast image

EP. 34 – Leadership & Service with Miss Montana USA 2023, Mady Rigg

Encounter the remarkable journey of Mady Rigg, a guiding light from the Flathead Valley who carries the title of Miss Montana USA 2023 with unparalleled grace. As we chat with Mady, her story unfolds like a winding mountain trail—full of unexpected turns but leading to breathtaking vistas.

Ep. 33 – Stirring up Success with Lemony Lemonade podcast image

Ep. 33 – Stirring up Success with Lemony Lemonade

Lemonade Day Flathead returns to the Flathead on June 22nd, providing young entrepreneurs the perfect opportunity to jump into the business world for the day with their own lemonade stands. In this podcast. 2023 Lemonade Day Flathead Youth Entrepreneur winners, Lemony Lemonade, share with us the secrets to lemonade business success. These dynamic siblings and youth entrepreneur winners, along with their mom, Nichole, share their journey of innovation, resilience, and growth, along with tips for other young entrepreneurs and their families.

Ep. 32- Shaping Leaders for Tomorrow: Leadership Flathead podcast image

Ep. 32- Shaping Leaders for Tomorrow: Leadership Flathead

Leadership Flathead is a 2-year program that helps to shape the Flathead Valley's leaders of tomorrow. In this episode, we'll learn all about this decades-long leadership program that has developed over 1000 community leaders over the years, and how the program stays current, developing local leaders for the 21st century.

Ep. 31 – On Track with the Highlander Track Program podcast image

Ep. 31 – On Track with the Highlander Track Program

Join Joel Rosenberg, banking executive and Executive Director of Highlander Track, as he unfolds the story of this legacy, free youth track and field and cross-country program's impact in the Flathead Valley. Established in the '70s by Jack King and Three Rivers Bank of MT, Highlander Track has evolved into an annual signature spring youth event for kids ages 6-12, nurturing not just physical prowess but also instilling valuable life skills in young athletes.

Ep. 30 – Mastering the Move to Montana podcast image

Ep. 30 – Mastering the Move to Montana

Ever wondered how a leap of faith from legal practice to launching a tech business feels? Bill Moseley, CEO of GL Solutions, shares how he pivoted from the world of law and government to the tech frontier, crafting software that transforms regulatory operations. Bill recounts GL Solutions' move from Bend, Oregon to Kalispell, with first-hand insight into the trials and triumphs of transplanting a thriving business and nurturing its growth in its new Flathead Valley home.

Ep. 29 – Big Sky Business with Todd O’Hair podcast image

Ep. 29 – Big Sky Business with Todd O’Hair

Join us as we visit with Todd O'Hair, the President and CEO of the Montana Chamber of Commerce, in this week's Venture Boldly episode where we dissect the multitude of strategies fueling Montana's economic engine. Todd brings a wealth of experience from his roots on a family ranch to the halls of government affairs, offering a unique vantage point on the challenges and triumphs of advocating for a thriving business community in Big Sky Country. Our discussion spans the state's urban-rural divide and the Chamber's pivotal role in shaping a robust economic landscape through the Envision 2026 plan.

Ep. 28 – Steady as She Grows: Analyzing the Flathead Valley Economy & Housing Market with James Williamson of Sage Appraisal and Strategy podcast image

Ep. 28 – Steady as She Grows: Analyzing the Flathead Valley Economy & Housing Market with James Williamson of Sage Appraisal and Strategy

Dive into the hidden dynamics of the Flathead Valley's economy and housing market as we team up with James Williamson from Sage Appraisal and Strategy. With James's expert analysis fresh from a presentation at the University of Montana's local BBER presentation, we dissect the local economic trends that show a slight deceleration yet maintain an upward momentum. We discuss local population growth, revealing its impact on the economic pulse of Kalispell and the Flathead.

Ep 27 – Venturing Boldly in 2024 podcast image

Ep 27 – Venturing Boldly in 2024

Join us as Lorraine Clarno, President and CEO of the Discover Kalispell Chamber, shares an exciting look into the Chamber's 2024 initiatives. From the strategic relocation to Main Street to a strong emphasis on a vibrant downtown and a focus on education, this episode is your personal roadmap to understanding the growth and vitality being cultivated in our town.

Ep. 26 – A Game Plan for Sports Tourism, with Evan Eleff podcast image

Ep. 26 – A Game Plan for Sports Tourism, with Evan Eleff

Evan Eleff from the Sports Facilities Companies joins us to dissect potential impact of a tournament-quality sports facility in the Flathead Valley. We'll touch on the economic, social, and community benefits that such a development would entail—not just a mere venue for sports, but a powerhouse for local businesses during shoulder seasons and a catalyst for stronger community ties.

Ep. 25- Banking on Montana with Mike Smith, Glacier Bank podcast image

Ep. 25- Banking on Montana with Mike Smith, Glacier Bank

As a community bank, Glacier Bank has been a foundational part of the Flathead Valley and northwest Montana economic landscape for decades. In today's episode we talk with Mike Smith, the influential Market President of Glacier Bank. In this wide-ranging interview, we discuss the history of Glacier Bank and its relationship with Glacier Bancorp, new technology, consumer behavior, fed rates, 2024 projections and more. We also learn about Glacier Bank's substantial investment in the community through its thousands of volunteer hours, hundreds of thousands of dollars donated annually, and lending for impactful community projects.

Ep. 24 – City Management & Emergency Response Funding with Doug Russell, Kalispell City Manager podcast image

Ep. 24 – City Management & Emergency Response Funding with Doug Russell, Kalispell City Manager

In this episode we're talking with Doug Russell, the Kalispell City Manager. Doug, a certified manager and public finance officer, navigates us through the world of local government management and the upcoming 2024 spring vote for a dedicated emergency responder levy in Kalispell.

Ep. 23 – Behind the Airwaves: Dive into the Radio Industry with John Hendricks of KGEZ, the 2023 Small Business of the Year podcast image

Ep. 23 – Behind the Airwaves: Dive into the Radio Industry with John Hendricks of KGEZ, the 2023 Small Business of the Year

John Hendricks is the dynamic owner of KGEZ Radio and proud winner of the 2023 Kalispell Chamber Small Business of the Year Award. We delve into his extraordinary career, gain insider wisdom on navigating the radio industry, discuss grasping the wave of technological change and reenergizing a local radio station.

Ep. 22 – 2023 Flathead Legacy Award Winners: Joe & Colleen Unterreiner podcast image

Ep. 22 – 2023 Flathead Legacy Award Winners: Joe & Colleen Unterreiner

Ever wondered what it takes to earn the coveted Flathead Legacy Award by the Discovered Kalispell Chamber? This episode of Venture Boldly is where you'll find out! We sit down with the 2023 winners, Joe and Colleen Unterreiner, a couple whose inspiring journey from Washington DC to Montana's Flathead Valley has left an indelible mark on the business community in Kalispell.

Ep 21 – Exploring the Crossroads of Sustainability and Innovation in Northwest Montana’s Timber Industry podcast image

Ep 21 – Exploring the Crossroads of Sustainability and Innovation in Northwest Montana’s Timber Industry

Do you ever wonder about the future of the timber industry in our rapidly changing world? This episode will take you deep into the heart of Northwest Montana, where innovation and sustainability are at the forefront of the timber sector. Together with our expert guests, Cameron Wohlschlegel, Lands & Resources Manager for F.H. Stoltze Land and Lumber, Ali Ulwelling, Montana Forest Action Plan Implementation Coordinator with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, and Zack Miller, Raw Material Manager for Weyerhaeuser, we’ll examine how they are making a difference in the evolution of the forestry and wood products industry.

Ep 20- Redefining Recruitment and Retention in Manufacturing: A Conversation with Dorothy Meyer podcast image

Ep 20- Redefining Recruitment and Retention in Manufacturing: A Conversation with Dorothy Meyer

Wondering what it takes to navigate workforce development in a male-dominated industry like manufacturing? We'll take a deep look at the significant shifts in the manufacturing sector influenced by the pandemic in this insightful interview with Dorothy Meyer of Nomad GCS.

Ep 19 – Unraveling Workforce Trends in Flathead County: A Conversation with Laura Gardner from Job Service Kalispell podcast image

Ep 19 – Unraveling Workforce Trends in Flathead County: A Conversation with Laura Gardner from Job Service Kalispell

Are you curious to uncover the hidden dynamics of workforce trends in Flathead County, Montana? Today, we're giving you an exclusive seat at our table as we talk with Laura Gardner from JobService Kalispell. With her robust 40 years of experience with the Job Service, Laura brings forth fascinating insights into how reduced business hours, low unemployment rate, and population influx are shaping the local labor market.

Ep 18 – Innovative Strategies in Workforce Development and Career Discovery with FVCC podcast image

Ep 18 – Innovative Strategies in Workforce Development and Career Discovery with FVCC

Ever wondered how education systems are evolving to meet the dynamic needs of industries and businesses? Let's explore the innovative strategies being implemented by Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC) to fulfill these transformations in this fascinating conversation with Lisa Blank, the Executive Director of Workforce Development.

Ep. 17 Innovation in Education: The Transformational Learning Initiative podcast image

Ep. 17 Innovation in Education: The Transformational Learning Initiative

If you've ever questioned the traditional education model and wondered how we can better prepare students for the real world, then this episode is for you. We sit down with Mike Kelly, the Work-Based Learning Director for Kalispell Public Schools, who is at the forefront of transforming education through personalized learning and work-based opportunities.

Ep. 16 – Rising Star of Leadership: Adam Cebulla on Millennial Challenges, Team Dynamics, and Crafting a Five-Star Customer Experience podcast image

Ep. 16 – Rising Star of Leadership: Adam Cebulla on Millennial Challenges, Team Dynamics, and Crafting a Five-Star Customer Experience

Meet Adam Cebulla, Discover Kalispell Chamber's Rising Star of 2022, as he takes us on a journey through his personal and professional leadership experiences from his days as an Eagle Scout to his role in leading a championship-level track team in college. Tune in and learn how his approach to leadership is deeply rooted in understanding team dynamics and leveraging individuals' motivations for collective success. His unique mantra of 'be great today' echoes throughout his narratives, demonstrating his dedication to the drive for continual improvement

Ep. 15 – Community Leadership and Legislative Achievements: A Talk with Representative Tony Brockman podcast image

Ep. 15 – Community Leadership and Legislative Achievements: A Talk with Representative Tony Brockman

What does it take to make a real impact in your community? Join us as we sit down with Tony Brockman, the 2022 Community Spirit Award winner from the Discover Kalispell Chamber and Montana House District 9 Representative, to find out! Tony shares his story of growing up in the Evergreen community and how his father instilled a strong work ethic in him. Listen in as Tony discusses his impressive achievements as a freshman representative in the Montana House of Representatives, successfully running 25 bills and getting 16 of them signed into law.

Ep. 14 – Daily Inter Lake with Anton Kaufer podcast image

Ep. 14 – Daily Inter Lake with Anton Kaufer

The Daily Inter Lake delivers the news to thousands of subscribers throughout the Flathead and beyond. Its papers include the area’s signature daily, the Daily Inter Lake, as well as the Hungry Horse News, the Whitefish Pilot, and the Bigfork Eagle. We'll discuss how the Daily Inter Lake has evolved over time with changes in technology and how the news is delivered and consumed, as well as how the paper is an active part of supporting the Flathead Valley community as well.

Ep. 13 – Lemonade Day Flathead, June 24th podcast image

Ep. 13 – Lemonade Day Flathead, June 24th

Lemonade Day is a program of the Kalispell Chamber that promotes entrepreneurship to youth in Kindergarten through 8th grade, one lemonade stand at a time. This year’s lemonade day program is bigger than ever, spanning the entirety of Flathead County, and it happens on Saturday, June 24th. We’ll learn more about the program and how kids can participate to become the next generation of Flathead entrepreneurs.

Ep. 12 – Glacier National Park – Dave Roemer, Superintendent podcast image

Ep. 12 – Glacier National Park – Dave Roemer, Superintendent

Glacier National Park is a crown jewel of the National Park System. Its over 1 million acres, located in Northwest Montana and situated just outside of Kalispell in the Flathead Valley, In this episode, we talk with the Glacier National Park Superintendent, Dave Roemer about visiting the park, visitor access, construction, and more.

Ep. 11 – Discover Kalispell – Diane Medler, Executive Director podcast image

Ep. 11 – Discover Kalispell – Diane Medler, Executive Director

As the snows of winter fade in the Flathead and tourism to the valley picks up as we head toward summer, Venture Boldly takes time to talk with Diane Medler, the Executive Director of Discover Kalispell, a destination marketing and stewardship organization as part of the Discover Kalispell Chamber. With top tourism destinations such as Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake, and Whitefish Mountain Resort in our backyard, tourism and its related dollars represents a significant industry in the Flathead Valley.

Ep. 10 – Three Rivers Bank of Montana podcast image

Ep. 10 – Three Rivers Bank of Montana

Three Rivers Bank of Montana is a key community bank in the Flathead Valley. Founded in 1973 by Jack King along with 11 local businessmen, First Security Bank of Kalispell, now Three Rivers Bank of Montana, has established itself over nearly five decades as a community bank that is deeply invested in the local community.

Ep. 9- Nomad GCS podcast image

Ep. 9- Nomad GCS

Nomad GCS is a growing and flourishing premier Flathead Valley manufacturer of mobile operations centers. With over 200 employees, they build these specialty vehicles, trailers, and more and ship them to all 50 states and internationally. Join us for an interview with Clay Binford, one of the co-founders of Nomad GCS, as he shares more about the history of the company's founding, and how they're growing today and into the future.

Ep. 8 – 2023 Montana Legislative Update- Rep. Courtenay Sprunger podcast image

Ep. 8 – 2023 Montana Legislative Update- Rep. Courtenay Sprunger

In this episode we’re diving deeper into specific legislation in this 68th Montana Legislative Session in our interview with Representative Courtenay Sprunger. Representative Sprunger, who is a former chair of the Kalispell Chamber board and is also the CEO and founder of Big Sky Public Relations, has sponsored a number of bills that have gained traction this session.

Ep. 7 – Montana Legislative Update podcast image

Ep. 7 – Montana Legislative Update

Learn more about current legislation that the Chamber is closely following right now on behalf of the business community with guest, Erica Wirtala, Chair of the Chamber's Government Affairs Committee. Erica will also share more about the Government Affairs Committee itself and how the chamber advocates on behalf of the business community.

Ep. 6 – Flathead Legacy Award Winner – Dr. Jane Karas -Flathead Valley Community College podcast image

Ep. 6 – Flathead Legacy Award Winner – Dr. Jane Karas -Flathead Valley Community College

Visionary. Leader. Innovator. These are words often used when describing our podcast guest, Dr. Jane Karas, President of Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC). Dr. Karas was awarded the Kalispell Chamber’s highest honor, the Flathead Legacy Award, for her outstanding contributions to the Flathead Valley community through her work at FVCC. Dr. Karas has been President of FVCC for over 20 years, helming the college through a variety of economic climates while steadily growing the college’s programming, facilities, and campus.

Ep. 5 – Educator of the Year 2022 – Micah Hill – Kalispell Public Schools podcast image

Ep. 5 – Educator of the Year 2022 – Micah Hill – Kalispell Public Schools

Join us for this podcast with Micah Hill, the award-winning Superintendent of Kalispell Public Schools. As the leader of the largest school district in northwest Montana, Micah has deftly navigated the waters through Covid and is helping to usher in transformational education for the district.

Ep. 4 – Nonprofit of the Year – Immanuel Lutheran Communities podcast image

Ep. 4 – Nonprofit of the Year – Immanuel Lutheran Communities

Featuring Jason Cronk, CEO Immanuel Lutheran Communities In November 2022, Immanuel Lutheran Communities (ILC) was awarded the nonprofit of the year award by the Discover Kalispell Chamber. ILC has been providing homes and care for seniors for over 65 years in Kalispell, and has been innovating and growing ever since. Its Kalispell campus includes independent living villas and apartments, assisted living, rehab care, long term and memory care.

Ep. 3 – Early Childhood Education podcast image

Ep. 3 – Early Childhood Education

Quality child care is a critical need throughout the country and it’s no different for Kalispell. The Kalispell Chamber initiated a child care study in 2021 and has been facilitating conversations about and growth in the availability of licensed child care locations. Corinne Kuntz is an innovative, entrepreneurial founder and owner of The Birds Nest – Early Learning Village which was recently awarded a $1 million grant to expand her business for caring for and educating young children in Kalispell.

Ep. 2 – Small Business Season with Gabe Mariman of Bias Brewing podcast image

Ep. 2 – Small Business Season with Gabe Mariman of Bias Brewing

In this episode we are talking with a fantastic, award-winning, small business located in the heart of downtown Kalispell: Bias Brewing. Gabe Mariman, Co-owner and General Manager of Bias Brewing, winner of the 2022 Discover Kalispell Chamber Small Business of the Year, shares about building a business, business culture, building community and more.

Ep. 1 – Venturing Boldly with the Discover Kalispell Chamber podcast image

Ep. 1 – Venturing Boldly with the Discover Kalispell Chamber

In this episode we're talking about the Kalispell Chamber, its core programs, and its Venture Boldly initiatives.

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