Venture Boldly

Send us your feedback! In this episode, we sit down with 2025 Flathead Legacy Award recipient Bob Nystuen to trace his path from North Dakota roots to leading Glacier Bank and shaping the Flathead’s business and education landscape. He shares how capital, culture, and service align: gather deposits, make sound loans, recruit great people, and share results so everyone rows together. When COVID-19 hit, that preparation helped his team process over 2,000 PPP loans—keeping businesses afloat through closures and uncertainty. Bob offers leadership lessons and steady guidance for today’s leaders facing AI, workforce shifts, and market change: be authentic, show gratitude, and lead with calm confidence. We also explore his deep ties to education, from FVCC’s growth to statewide efforts advancing healthcare, manufacturing, trades, and dual-credit programs that connect students to careers. Looking ahead, Bob shares his predications for the Flathead. His call to action—invest in education, civic leadership, and innovation—offers a clear path to a resilient future. If you care about community banking, workforce development, or Montana’s economic future, this episode delivers real-world insight and inspiration. Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help others find the show. Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! 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. Today, Fiber Reaper is a growing example of how innovation thrives in the Flathead Valley’s manufacturing ecosystem. The company has shipped to all 50 states, expanded into Canada and Mexico, and secured patents in 29 countries. Each new order—tracked on a foam board map in their Kalispell workspace—shows how small-scale innovation here can ripple through industries nationwide. It’s proof that practical, Montana-made solutions can compete on a global stage while keeping their roots local. Tune in to learn more about this "Made in Montana, Made in the Flathead" story. Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! 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. The stark reality becomes clear as he describes detention officers navigating cramped corridors, managing mental health crises without proper facilities, and watching judges make release decisions based on space constraints rather than public safety. The proposed $105 million facility, whose bond has been endorsed by the Kalispell Chamber, would address these challenges while providing dedicated mental health housing and programming space currently impossible in the outdated jail. As you listen to this podcast, you'll learn how much the proposed facility's bond will cost homeowners (for many, about the cost of a cup of coffee per month), and the benefits that the community will realize with a new facility: restored accountability, improved safety, and investment for the future. Want to see the current conditions firsthand? Click here to sign up for a tour of the current jail facility. Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! 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. Since moving to Kalispell in 2007, Kisa and her husband have built several businesses while raising four children. She has served on the Kalispell Chamber Board, chaired the Business Improvement District, and participated in multiple city task forces. Kisa describes herself as a “professional problem solver,” not a career politician. Her campaign focuses on three priorities: strengthening public safety, ensuring responsible spending, and tackling housing affordability through free-market solutions. She outlines how her business experience informs these priorities and why she believes removing barriers for developers is key to addressing housing challenges. Throughout the conversation, Kisa emphasizes urgency, accountability, and improving communication between city government and residents. Learn more by listening to this engaging podcast and by visiting www.kisa4kalispell.com. Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! 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. We talk about downtown revitalization, including how asking tough questions about city-owned property opened the door to new development opportunities. Waterman also discusses the challenge of balancing historic preservation with the needs of local businesses and residents. Finally, he explains his approach to building a “getting to yes” culture in city government—focusing on transparency, strong public services, and a smoother process for small businesses. Tune in to hear his perspective on what it will take to keep Kalispell both unique and thriving. Link: Kyle4Kalispell: Kyle 4 Kalispell - Kalispell City Council Ward 3 Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! 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. The conversation dives deep into the center's focus on "desistance" rather than recidivism. As Sanderson explains, this approach yields both better public safety outcomes and economic benefits for the community. What about community concerns? The directors address this head-on, discussing their comprehensive safety protocols, transportation plans to minimize neighborhood impact, and commitment to transparency through community open houses planned for September. Whether you're interested in criminal justice reform or community safety, this episode offers valuable insights into how the Department of Corrections is reimagining the path from incarceration to contribution. Links: Careers with Department of Corrections: https://cor.mt.gov/About/Careers MT Dept of Corrections- Prerelease centers: Prerelease Centers Director Brian Gootkin: prod-cor.mt.gov/About/DirectorsPage Operations Manager James Sanderson: Jim Sanderson - Manager of Operations (PRC Director)- MT Department of Corrections | LinkedIn Dates for open houses and further links to the Flathead Valley Reentry Center will be added to the show notes as they are available. Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! 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), brings deep knowledge to managing these resources and highlights new public access projects, including Somers Beach State Park and expanded fishing areas near Flathead Lake. Key efforts like the Montana Great Outdoors Conservation Easement will protect over 80,000 acres through partnerships with timber companies, ensuring public access while maintaining sustainable forestry and preventing development. With rising bear encounters, FWP focuses on prevention through education, bear-proof containers, and a new conflict dashboard. Amber urges public involvement in conservation efforts and reminds us that protecting Montana’s outdoors takes all of us. Link: Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! 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. Fairgrounds Manager Sam Nunnally and Event Sponsorship Coordinator Kelsey Hansberry share how their personal ties to the Flathead Valley shape their vision for the fairgrounds’ future. From major facility upgrades to securing top-tier entertainment like Joan Jett and Scotty McCreery, their team is focused on preserving tradition while driving meaningful growth. Listeners will hear about the fairgrounds’ impact on youth development through 4-H and agriculture, as well as long-term plans for milestone celebrations in 2026 and 2027. With new rodeo partnerships and a dedicated preservation foundation, the fairgrounds continue to evolve while staying rooted in community values. Links: Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo - Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo Fair contests: Contests - Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo Schedule of Events: Schedule of Events - Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo Fairgrounds facility rental: Fairgrounds Facilities and Rentals | Flathead County, MT Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! 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. Associate Director Tom Bansak shares the story of the station’s start in 1899, when it operated out of a borrowed cabin, and how it grew into a leading center for freshwater research. Founded by biologist Morton Elrod, the station now maintains one of the world’s most complete lake data records. In the 1970s, scientists there discovered signs of pollution. Tom shares how community action helped to restore water quality. Today, the station’s work goes beyond science. It offers education programs, supports the local economy, and brings together tribal, government, and business leaders to keep the lake healthy for the future. Tune in to learn more about the important work of the FLBS! Links: flbs.umt.edu. Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! "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." For parents considering whether their children should participate in Lemonade Day, Teryn, the girls' mom, shares, "it's so worth it" to see children develop confidence, creativity, and practical skills that extend far beyond business. Don't miss Lemonade Day Flathead on June 21st! Sign up at www.lemonadeday.org/flathead to participate. Community members can support these young entrepreneurs by visiting their stands throughout the Flathead Valley on Saturday June 21st; stand locations can be found here: Flathead | Lemonade Day As Parker says, these kids "have worked hard and they have learned so much and they've tried new flavors and they've come up with things that you probably have never heard of." Ready to squeeze the day? Register kids at: www.lemonadeday.org/flathead Find stands at: Flathead | Lemonade Day Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! 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. Raised in a family of builders in Whitefish, Bill took a hands-on path—starting his own company at 22 and focusing on projects that meet real community needs. From preserving green space to revitalizing downtown Kalispell, his work balances growth with purpose. Now expanding beyond the Flathead, Bill reflects on two decades of building, mentoring, and giving back—guided by the belief that “the more I give, the more I get.” Compass Construction: compassmt.net Sunshine Factory: The Sunshine Factory - 406 For Kids Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! 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. What truly distinguishes Catapult Collective is its three-pronged approach: career-focused educational events, structured mentorship opportunities, and meaningful relationship building beyond surface-level networking. The mentorship component pairs emerging professionals with established leaders from key Flathead industries including technology, banking, manufacturing, and tourism. The program launches in June 2025 with a focus on AI. Tune in to learn more about this brand-new program! www.kalispellchamber.com Catapult Collective - Career Development Acceleration Initiative - Kalispell Chamber of Commerce For more information, contact: Lorraine Clarno at l.clarno@kalispellchamber.com or Amanda Hewitt at a.hewitt@kalispellchamber.com Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! Join us as Matt Laughlin, Director of the Wacholz 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. The journey began with Paul Wacholz's foundational donation that catalyzed community support, creating what Matt calls "a venue built for the community, by the community." Now serving as both world-class performance space and vital community platform, the Center hosts everything from Grammy-winning musicians to local nonprofit fundraisers. Listen in as Matt shares in inside view on venue management and programming, the center's role in bringing a wide-array of speakers, concerts, and performances to the valley, opportunities for new college programming and more. Visit WCCMT.org to explore upcoming performances and discover how this cultural gem is connecting world-class talent with the Flathead Valley community. Your ticket purchase isn't just entertainment - it's an investment in the artistic vitality of Northwest Montana. Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! 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 Britt 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. What sets the mansion apart is its exceptional preservation—90% of the home’s contents are original, and the structure remains largely unchanged since its construction. This historical integrity offers visitors a unique window into the era, making the mansion both a cultural landmark and a testament to careful stewardship. The site also functions as a year-round community space, with open grounds and engaging events that invite residents and tourists alike to connect with local history. Operating as a nonprofit with no government funding, the mansion relies on community support to address ongoing preservation needs, including accessibility upgrades and facility improvements. The Conrad Mansion remains a vital link to Kalispell’s roots, welcoming all who wish to experience a living piece of Montana heritage. Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! 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. Join us as Montana State Economist, Amy Watson, paints a picture of what's driving this growth and the challenges that come with it. The most pressing issue? An extraordinarily tight labor market with approximately two job openings for every unemployed Montanan. This workforce squeeze creates significant recruiting headaches for employers but has driven up wages and opportunities for workers. 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. Resources: https://lmi.mt.gov Montana Labor Day Report Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! Local Control. Local Values. 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. Listeners will gain insights into the vital role local levies play in providing quality education, funding critical programs, and ensuring that our schools can continue to thrive. You’ll learn about the potential ramifications of not passing the levy—including the loss of teaching positions, reduced course offerings and increased class sizes that could hinder student success. Investing in our schools supports workforce readiness and strengthens the community. This episode invites listeners to get involved, share knowledge, and advocate for the future of Kalispell education. Don’t miss this important conversation. Kalispell Public Schools: Home - Kalispell Public School District 5 Podcast guests: Matt Jensen: With two decades of dedicated service in public education, Matt has established his standing as a proven leader committed to shaping a brighter future for our students. Matt embarked on his career as a high school Social Studies Teacher and concurrently served as the MEA/MFT Union Co-President, a testament to his commitment to both administrative leadership and hands-on education. He went on to serve in roles including High School Principal, Elementary School Principal, and Superintendent of Bigfork Schools, before joining Kalispell Public Schools as Assistant Superintendent, later being named Superintendent starting with the 2024-2025 school year. Matt shares, "Being entrusted with other people's children and community resources has been the most humbling honor of my life. My roots, both personal and professional, run deep in the Flathead Valley. It's challenging to find the words to describe what it feels like to serve the children of my friends, family, colleagues, and the community that once invested in me." Jinn Mariman: Jinnifer Mariman was born and raised in Libby, Montana and went to law school to help folks like those in her hometown who were exposed to asbestos. Jinn is doing just that as partner at McGarvey Law. Her husband Gabe co-owns Bias Brewing. Together they have two daughters in Hedges Elementary and have been committed to our community through various boards and efforts. Viewing our public education is one of our greatest public resources, Jinn became a Trustee for Kalispell Public Schools in May 2023. She is proud to serve our community in that role. Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! 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. Phil delves into the core principles of accountability, trust, and adaptability. He reflects on pivotal moments from his military and corporate experiences, offering lessons on the importance of quality over expediency in decision-making. Phil also passionately discusses the challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian careers and how employers can support them better. Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! What if breaking away from a toxic environment could unlock your true potential? Join us as we sit down with Sherrie Patterson, the owner of Essential Development and Coaching, who shares her journey from the education sector to establishing a thriving business in leadership and personal development. Sherry lays bare her initial struggles, debunking the myth that success is all about having the perfect plan. Instead, she champions the power of personal growth and passion as the real game-changers in creating meaningful change. 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. Whether you're transitioning from being an operator to an owner or aiming to align work with life, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration for embracing personal and professional growth. Sherrie Patterson - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-patterson-b2ba574b Essential Development and Coaching, LLC - Kalispell Chamber Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! 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 Freidline, 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. His dedication to service shines through as he discusses his role in promoting professionalism within the building industry and his profound impact on youth art programs and community advisory boards. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the initiatives fostering community engagement and development in the Flathead Valley. Mark delves into organizing pivotal events like the Home and Garden Showcase and the reintroduction of the Parade of Homes, designed to connect industry professionals and the public. He also addresses the pressing issue of workforce development by highlighting efforts to bring younger individuals and women into the trades. With a focus on collaboration between educational institutions and industry, Mark outlines strategies for attracting future talent and addressing housing challenges. www.buildingflathead.com Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

Send us your feedback! 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. We explore the bank’s vibrant relationship with the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce and their genuine commitment to community development, exemplified by their partnership with the Glacier Range Riders baseball team. Mike shares the bank's philosophy of fostering community spirit through active employee engagement in local nonprofits and events. As Glacier Bank navigates fresh opportunities following their acquisition of Rocky Mountain Bank branches, we uncover the strategic decisions driving their core focus on banking services. From consolidating branches for operational efficiency to Mike's role in Governor Gianforte's housing task force, we illuminate the bank's dedication to solving local housing challenges, particularly for first-time buyers. We wrap up by highlighting the meaningful contributions of Mike and Glacier Bank to the community. Join us in this inspiring conversation that highlights the power of community-centered banking. Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr. © Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com