BEAR Discussions

Lisa Bruhn talks with Wayne Lautsbaugh of Crescent Meats about business, meat packing, farming, and more!

CCEDC's Charlie Walker sits down with Justin Vajko, founder of Dialog Design Co., to discuss being proactive about finding talent, the importance of investing into your employees before anything else, and the evolvement of the field of digital marketing.

CCEDC's Charlie Walker sits down with Matt Guse, owner of MRS Machining Co., to discuss carrying on legacies, educating the next generation, and the criticality of manufacturing as a trade.

Northwest Truck Service was founded in 2014 by husband and wife team Dave and Jani Kott, and the team has expanded to include their children and professional diesel mechanics. Their daughter Jordan, an economist, joins the CCEDC to discuss the conception and development of Northwest Truck Service, thriving as a family business, talent acquisition and retention, and the importance of a healthy work...

CEDC's Charlie Walker sits down with Dr. Lona Cook, a writer, philosopher, and chiropractor. She tells us about the varying areas of learning that she has explored, as well as giving insight on success, peace, and raising a family and a business.

Ashley Nyhus and CEDC's Charlie Walker discuss the importance of balance. Ashley is a principal of Nyhus Enterprises and she gives an update on how she works with her spouse Eric-as they work together to grow a business and a family.

A BEAR Discussion with Dr. Vijay Sasi owner/president of ABECS Global from Stanley, Wisconsin. In this episode we hear about his journey from bootstrapping a start-up business to becoming a major custom manufacturing company involved with the production and distribution of animal health nutritional supplements. ABECS Global LLC conducts business globally with specific emphasis on improving dairy p...

Charlie Walker and Mai Xiong discuss WHEDA’s mission is to stimulate the state’s economy. The organization provides the tools to help people and communities realize their hopes and dreams. The issue of affordable housing are pressing issues that all communities face, especially in rural areas. Learn a little bit more about WHEDA.

Lisa Bruhn co-host speaks with speaks with Dave Espeseth/CEO of Piccard. Who for over 30 years has been working hands on with Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist, and Directors of Nursing. Being involved in the skilled nursing home industry since 1986, Dave’s favorite area to work on in the product design and customer service learn what inspires his medical chair design.

In this episode of BEAR Discussions co-hosts Lisa Bruhn and Bob Oliver introduce a Western Wisconsin company called Star Blends. They discuss partnerships with Manufacturing Outreach Centers (MOC), Star Blends, and the local economic development corporation CCEDC. Choosing the right expansion location and keeping a company moving in the right direction takes a team.

SMARTcare is advancing home care. A complete cloud-based business automation platform for home care providers that drive best practices in care and elevates patient/caregiver engagement and satisfaction. SMARTcare uses connected technologies that enable home care providers to organize, optimize and simplify care delivery while saving time and improving outcomes.

Through four generations of family ownership, Huebsch has developed a great respect for their employees, customers and communities. Servicing Minneapolis-St. Paul and Western Wisconsin, the company continues to grow. Hear how the company is focused on the future!