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Whether you are a local business leader, founder, economic developer, or curious community member, you will find thoughtful dialogue and practical takeaways on building stronger, more resilient economies. With a...
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Whether you are a local business leader, founder, economic developer, or curious community member, you will find thoughtful dialogue and practical takeaways on building stronger, more resilient economies. With a focus on learning and community insight, BEAR Discussions connects listeners to real-world perspectives on how businesses start, grow, and thrive.
Each episode features candid conversations with business leaders, entrepreneurs, founders, policymakers, and industry experts about issues shaping regional development, from workforce and innovation to manufacturing, defense, and small business success. Business Expansion and Retention (BEAR) Discussions is a podcast by the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) that explores the strategies, stories, and people driving economic growth in the Chippewa Valley and beyond.
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Each episode features candid conversations with business leaders, entrepreneurs, founders, policymakers, and industry experts about issues shaping regional development, from workforce and innovation to manufacturing, defense, and small business success. Business Expansion and Retention (BEAR) Discussions is a podcast by the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) that explores the strategies, stories, and people driving economic growth in the Chippewa Valley and beyond.
Episodes & Posts
Episodes
Posts
6 FEB 2026 · 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 lessons Brandon hopes will resonate with other entrepreneurs navigating their own business journeys.
23 JAN 2026 · 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 meaningful.
9 JAN 2026 · 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 highlights how mentorship can be a true competitive advantage.
26 DEC 2025 · 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 of their business shapes their culture, leadership, and long-term vision.
12 DEC 2025 · 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.
28 NOV 2025 · 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 insights on building trust in government contracting, lessons learned over decades, and why starting small—and treating every client right—can lead to lasting success.
14 NOV 2025 · 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.
31 OCT 2025 · 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 strengthening the Chippewa Valley’s economic growth and business readiness.
17 OCT 2025 · 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.
3 OCT 2025 · 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.
Whether you are a local business leader, founder, economic developer, or curious community member, you will find thoughtful dialogue and practical takeaways on building stronger, more resilient economies. With a...
show more
Whether you are a local business leader, founder, economic developer, or curious community member, you will find thoughtful dialogue and practical takeaways on building stronger, more resilient economies. With a focus on learning and community insight, BEAR Discussions connects listeners to real-world perspectives on how businesses start, grow, and thrive.
Each episode features candid conversations with business leaders, entrepreneurs, founders, policymakers, and industry experts about issues shaping regional development, from workforce and innovation to manufacturing, defense, and small business success. Business Expansion and Retention (BEAR) Discussions is a podcast by the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) that explores the strategies, stories, and people driving economic growth in the Chippewa Valley and beyond.
show less
Each episode features candid conversations with business leaders, entrepreneurs, founders, policymakers, and industry experts about issues shaping regional development, from workforce and innovation to manufacturing, defense, and small business success. Business Expansion and Retention (BEAR) Discussions is a podcast by the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) that explores the strategies, stories, and people driving economic growth in the Chippewa Valley and beyond.
Information
| Author | CEDC Podcasts |
| Organization | CEDC Podcasts |
| Categories | Business |
| Website | chippewa-wi.com |
| staff@chippewa-wi.com |
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