BEAR Discussions

Recorded on location at Gilbert's of Sand Creek, this episode of the BEAR Discussions Podcast features host Charlie Walker and co-host Karen Smith in conversation with Steve Olson and Clay Olson. Together, they discuss the dealership's history, the value of family ownership, leadership, innovation, and what continues to drive the business forward in the Chippewa Valley.

Host Charlie Walker sits down with Kelli Cook, founder of The Yoga Plant in Chippewa Falls, to talk about how saying yes to everything led to burnout—and how learning to say no transformed her energy, her business, and the community she serves.

Tune in to this episode with host Charlie Walker and cohost Ken Pearson of Jackson County Economic Development & Tourism for a conversation with David Epstein, recorded in Jackson County. Listen as owner of Mosser Lee, David Epstein shares insights on real-world challenges and opportunities in rural communities, and how treating your employees well can go a long way toward building strong, suc...

Nine‑time American Ninja Warrior and entrepreneur Maggi Thorne joins host Charlie Walker and co‑host John Gatto  to share how she learned to see every setback as opportunity, not opposition. From starting as a custodian to managing multi‑million‑dollar projects and stepping onto the American Ninja Warrior stage, Maggi unpacks the mindset, resilience, and faith it takes to keep moving forward when...

In this episode of the CEDC Bear Discussions podcast, Charlie Walker sits down with Momentum West Executive Director Steve Jahn to discuss the power of partnerships in economic development.  Learn how collaboration among communities, businesses, educators, and economic development organizations has helped make Western Wisconsin a thriving place to live, work, and invest.

Join hosts Charlie Walker and cohost Ron Haas, President of the Stanley Chamber of Commerce, on the BEAR Discussions Podcast as they sit down with retired U.S. Army veteran Dan Osborn, owner of Wisconsin Veterans Farm & Winery in Cornell, Wisconsin. Tune in to hear his journey from military service to building a unique agritourism and winery business rooted in purpose, community, and veteran e...

Join hosts Charlie and Lisa on the Bear Podcast as they interview Matt and Shawna Gwiazda, owners of Mag Stainless in Cadott, Wisconsin. Tune in to hear their journey building a nationally recognized stainless steel fabrication company right here in Chippewa County.

Charlie and Ken discuss the unique challenges of rural and home‑based businesses, the power of community banks, and how to build a banking relationship before you really need it.

Host Charlie Walker is joined by Nick Ford from UW–Stout’s Manufacturing Outreach Center for a conversation about supporting small and mid-size manufacturers in western Wisconsin. They explore lean and TWI-based training, process improvement, AI in manufacturing, workforce development, and safety strategies that help manufacturers operate more efficiently and stay competitive.

Joe Roshell of Orion Defense Systems joins BEAR Discussions to share how “old boys” mentoring, smart partnerships, and steady learning helped him build a growing commercial roof-coatings business through volatile early years, talent challenges, and rapid innovation in both coatings and AI-driven marketing

In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker and therapist Andrea Polnaszek of the Boylan Sisters to talk movies, books, Wisconsin’s growing film industry, and how stories connect communities.

Charlie sits down with Brandon Mitchell of Block 49 Meats to explore how a family legacy evolved into a modern meat business. Brandon shares the realities of launching a startup, the challenges and rewards of building a company from the ground up alongside his spouse, and the importance of strong mentors and community connections along the way. The conversation offers practical insights and lesson...

This episode features Amanda Novak, entrepreneur and founder of NovaSky Marketing LLC, a company guided by creativity, strategy, and leading from the heart. We talk about Amanda’s path into entrepreneurship, how she started and runs NovaSky, and why staying people-first matters in business. It’s an honest conversation about growth, values, and keeping a clear vision while building something meanin...

In this episode of BEAR Discussions, we sit down with Scott Coller of Gesund Health Data, the HATCH 25 winner, for a conversation centered on the power of mentorship. Scott shares how guidance from mentors shaped his leadership, decision-making, and entrepreneurial journey — and why no one builds a successful company alone. From lessons learned to the importance of paying it forward, this episode...

Host Charlie Walker, joined by co-host Karen Smith, sits down with B and L Transload and Warehousing, LLC and Springbrook Express LLC of New Auburn to talk about their journey in the trucking and transload industry. The conversation covers company history, growth, employee retention, and why putting people first has been key to their success. The guests also share how keeping Christ at the center...

Host Charlie Walker sits down with John Gatto of the Transatlantic Strategy Group to explore how U.S. and European markets are becoming increasingly interconnected. John breaks down what global policy shifts mean for regional business, where new opportunities are emerging, and how companies in the Chippewa Valley can stay ahead as the world economy continues to evolve.

On this episode of the CEDC BEAR Discussions Podcast, host Charlie Walker and co-host Ken Pearson sit down with Tom Mannes, a self-taught expert in defense manufacturing. For 25 years, Tom has navigated the complex world of working with the Department of Defense, growing his business from humble beginnings while emphasizing integrity, relationships, and attention to detail. Tune in to hear his ins...

Host Charlie Walker and Co-Host Ken Pearson sit down with John Wilkinson of Simpson Electric to discuss the company’s legacy, products once used in wartime, and its dedication to inspiring and supporting the next generation of innovators. They also explore the lasting value of connection and the power of face-to-face collaboration in today’s world.

In this episode of BEAR Discussions, Charlie Walker talks with Matt Frost from the Wisconsin Procurement Institute (WPI) about how WPI supports local businesses through government contracting guidance, technical assistance, and opportunity navigation. Matt shares how WPI helps companies confidently pursue federal, state, and local contracts, and highlights their strong partnership with the CEDC in...

Host Charlie Walker sits down with Cindy Meyer and her team from Rogers Behavioral Health to discuss the importance of mental wellness in the workplace and community. Together, they explore how kindness, presence, and compassion can foster healthier environments for everyone.

Join Charlie Walker and co-host Karen Smith as they chat with Michelle Endvick about the joys, challenges, and importance of childcare. Practical insights and real talk for parents, providers, and anyone passionate about early childhood.

Host Charlie Walker welcomes Brian Maki, new Executive Director of the Northern Wisconsin State Fair, for a lively discussion about career changes, local leadership, and Brian’s roots in the Chippewa Valley. Brian shares his experience in media, events, and his vision for growing community impact through the Fair.

In this episode, Charlie Walker talks with Tyler Sperry about the role of insurance in protecting businesses and supporting growth in today’s economy.

In this episode, host Charlie Walker sits down with entrepreneurs from Health Shift who rethought healthcare for themselves, their employees, and for every small business. Together, they discuss their model that blends education, consulting, and fixed indemnity plans — to help small business owners manage costs, improve preventative care, and support workforce wellness. Tune in to discover how inn...

Tune in as host Charlie Walker sits down with Courtney Luzinski and Alicia Soper, the dynamic founders of White Barn Realty in Stanley, WI. Together, they unpack the current real estate landscape—from interest rates and rural market trends to the surprising ways AI is transforming how agents work.