https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/these-are-your-neighbors--6022289enSociety & CultureCopyright Dakota Media Accesshttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/3a166a3c74e0e3a763e4aed35e5f8fbf.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/these-are-your-neighbors--6022289Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:18:40 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeBismarck Human Relations Committeeinfo@radioaccess.orgThese Are Your Neighbors is a podcast hosted by Thea Jorgensen and Sargianna Wutzke who are members of the City of Bismarck’s Human Relations Committee. Through conversations with diverse change-makers in the community, the podcast hopes to strengthen...falseepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/these-are-your-neighbors-ep-85-denise-fettig-loftisness--72556005resources, the Dream Center serves hundreds of neighbors each day, 365 days a year.

Denise brings a diverse background in nonprofit leadership and public service. She previously
served as Resource Development Director at Missouri Slope Areawide United Way and Event
Coordinator at the Age Well Center. She spent 14 years living in Japan, including 10 years as a
civilian Special Staff Family Readiness Officer for the Commanding General of the III Marine
Expeditionary Force, and has lived throughout the United States since the age of 24. In 2021, she
returned to Bismarck, North Dakota, to care for her parents following their dementia diagnoses,
an experience that continues to shape her work and advocacy.

She is the Founder and Director of the Bismarck Memory Café, a monthly gathering that
provides connection, education, and support for those living with memory loss and their care
partners. Denise serves as a Community Educator with the Alzheimer’s Association and is an
active volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Impact Movement, where she advocates for legislation,
shares personal stories to influence policy, engages in social media advocacy, and supports policy
campaigns that improve the lives of those affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia. She also serves
on the Human Relations Committee for the City of Bismarck.

In recognition of her impact, Denise was named the 2025 AARP Andrus Award for Community
Service recipient - AARP’s most prestigious volunteer honor -and a 2026 Scheels Hidden
Hometown Hero Finalist.

She is passionate about building strong partnerships that create meaningful, lasting change in her
community.


]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72556005Tue, 14 Jul 2026 16:00:03 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeDenise Fettig-Loftesnes serves as Development Director at Dream Center Bismarck, where she leads fundraising and community engagement efforts to ensure individuals and families have consistent access to food, support, and stability. Through its daily...resources, the Dream Center serves hundreds of neighbors each day, 365 days a year.

Denise brings a diverse background in nonprofit leadership and public service. She previously
served as Resource Development Director at Missouri Slope Areawide United Way and Event
Coordinator at the Age Well Center. She spent 14 years living in Japan, including 10 years as a
civilian Special Staff Family Readiness Officer for the Commanding General of the III Marine
Expeditionary Force, and has lived throughout the United States since the age of 24. In 2021, she
returned to Bismarck, North Dakota, to care for her parents following their dementia diagnoses,
an experience that continues to shape her work and advocacy.

She is the Founder and Director of the Bismarck Memory Café, a monthly gathering that
provides connection, education, and support for those living with memory loss and their care
partners. Denise serves as a Community Educator with the Alzheimer’s Association and is an
active volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Impact Movement, where she advocates for legislation,
shares personal stories to influence policy, engages in social media advocacy, and supports policy
campaigns that improve the lives of those affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia. She also serves
on the Human Relations Committee for the City of Bismarck.

In recognition of her impact, Denise was named the 2025 AARP Andrus Award for Community
Service recipient - AARP’s most prestigious volunteer honor -and a 2026 Scheels Hidden
Hometown Hero Finalist.

She is passionate about building strong partnerships that create meaningful, lasting change in her
community.


]]>1916false85fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/these-are-your-neighbors-ep-84-miranda-klatt--72555975

As the founder of a nonprofit organization focused on providing access to exercise services for individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges, Miranda believes that movement is more than physical—it is a powerful tool for healing, connection, and personal growth. Her organization works to ensure that financial limitations do not prevent people from experiencing the benefits of supportive, health-centered communities.


Through her leadership, Miranda continues to build partnerships, create opportunities, and inspire others to view wellness through a more inclusive and compassionate lens. Her mission is simple yet impactful: to make community, movement, and mental health support accessible to all.


]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72555975Tue, 30 Jun 2026 16:00:03 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeMiranda Klatt is a passionate advocate for mental health, community connection, and accessible wellness. With a background rooted in fitness and a deep commitment to helping others, she has dedicated her work to breaking down barriers that prevent...

As the founder of a nonprofit organization focused on providing access to exercise services for individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges, Miranda believes that movement is more than physical—it is a powerful tool for healing, connection, and personal growth. Her organization works to ensure that financial limitations do not prevent people from experiencing the benefits of supportive, health-centered communities.


Through her leadership, Miranda continues to build partnerships, create opportunities, and inspire others to view wellness through a more inclusive and compassionate lens. Her mission is simple yet impactful: to make community, movement, and mental health support accessible to all.


]]>1999false84fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/these-are-your-neighbors-ep-83-mary-soucie--72297562
Prior to joining the North Dakota State Library Team, Mary has worked in public and school libraries; as the Youth Services Consultant for a Regional Library System; and was also an adjunct professor at a community college teaching Reader’s Advisory and Adult Programs. She has served as a trustee for both a public library and an Illinois Regional Library System. Mary has served on the boards of several library associations at the state, regional and national levels. She has served in many volunteer capacities, both within the library community and her own community. Mary believes that libraries serve as community centers,connecting all the parts of the community that they serve.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72297562Tue, 16 Jun 2026 16:00:02 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeMary Soucie began the duties of State Librarian on January 6, 2014. Mary moved here from Illinois, where she was born and raised. She received her undergraduate degree from Illinois State with a Bachelor of Science in Education with a Minor in...
Prior to joining the North Dakota State Library Team, Mary has worked in public and school libraries; as the Youth Services Consultant for a Regional Library System; and was also an adjunct professor at a community college teaching Reader’s Advisory and Adult Programs. She has served as a trustee for both a public library and an Illinois Regional Library System. Mary has served on the boards of several library associations at the state, regional and national levels. She has served in many volunteer capacities, both within the library community and her own community. Mary believes that libraries serve as community centers,connecting all the parts of the community that they serve.]]>1948false83fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/these-are-your-neighbors-ep-82-taylor-johnson--72297561]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72297561Tue, 02 Jun 2026 14:35:31 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeTaylor is a 27-year-old public health professional from Bismarck who is running for the North Dakota House of Representatives in District 35. Her public health education opened her eyes to the impact of policy on health, and has been driven to improve...]]>1994false82fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-81-dan-eastgate--72069019
Dan is very involved in the community.  His community involvement includes being a member of the Bismarck School Board, Bismarck Public School Foundation, and the Bismarck Public School Foundation.  He has also been a mentor with Bismarck-Mandan Young Life.
Dan and his wife, Lacey, have three boys and two additional members of the family, their dogs.
Dan loves spending time with his family and friends. He’s an outdoor enthusiast enjoying camping, fishing, and chasing pheasants. Dan spends a lot of time at basketball games, enjoying sports, and likes to read in his spare time. You can also find him behind the microphone as an announcer at many local high school sporting events. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72069019Tue, 19 May 2026 13:19:35 +0000Bismarck Human Relations Committee Dan is a 4th generation resident of Bismarck. Dan’s great passion is caring for his community and especially the people who call it home. Dan entered the real estate industry nine years ago and became a high-performing Realtor who believes in...
Dan is very involved in the community.  His community involvement includes being a member of the Bismarck School Board, Bismarck Public School Foundation, and the Bismarck Public School Foundation.  He has also been a mentor with Bismarck-Mandan Young Life.
Dan and his wife, Lacey, have three boys and two additional members of the family, their dogs.
Dan loves spending time with his family and friends. He’s an outdoor enthusiast enjoying camping, fishing, and chasing pheasants. Dan spends a lot of time at basketball games, enjoying sports, and likes to read in his spare time. You can also find him behind the microphone as an announcer at many local high school sporting events. ]]>1789falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-80-dana-henry--71874793
A driven student and athlete, Dana graduated high school in three years and attendedthe University of Nevada, Reno, becoming the first unrecruited walk-on under CoachDevin Scruggs eventually working her way up to earning a division I scholarship herjunior year. She competed in two NCAA national tournaments, earned All-WACAcademic honors three times, set weight room records, served as a student senator,and was named Outstanding Senior for the university all while balancing leadership,academics, and competition.

With degrees spanning massage therapy, HR, accounting, speech pathology, and anMBA in strategic management, her unconventional educational path reflects acommitment to learning and public service. A dedicated public servant, she has heldprofessional roles in education, nonprofits, and government. Currently, with the State ofNorth Dakota Information Technology Department, she fills the role of Staff Accountant,Culture Rise training facilitator, and was elected to serve a 6-year term on the StatePersonnel Board. She just celebrated her 5 th year as a state employee and looksforward to the next 25.

Athletics continue to anchor her identity. Today, Dana plays in the top women’s leaguein Bismarck and is a high school and collegiate volleyball official. She made history in2023 as the first female wrestling official in North Dakota, officiating the inauguralstate girls’ dual tournament at the Fargodome.

Moving to a new state every few years, she found connection through service. Thatphilosophy became her pageant platform—GIVE: Get Involved in VolunteerEfforts—turning interest into action and passion into purpose.

Her journey into pageantry began at age six as a “little sister” in the Miss KlamathCounty pageant, an experience that sparked a lifelong passion for service, mentorship,and community leadership behind the glamour of the crown. Dana competed in the MissAmerica Opportunity across three states, earning more than $12,000 in scholarships,and has continued in pageantry through marriage and multiple systems—earningnational and international titles including America’s SUPER Mrs., American RoyalBeauties National Ms., Miss Continental Worldwide, and Mrs. North DakotaAmerica 2025.

Offstage, she is deeply invested in the infrastructure of pageantry,serving as an emcee, judge, choreographer, tabulator, planning committee member, andaward-winning behind-the-scenes volunteer as the Veronica Villegas Best Volunteerfrom the Global Beauty Awards.

Today, she serves on three nonprofit boards; North Dakota Public Employees LocalUnion 4660, the Young Professionals Network, and Brave the Shave a state-wideorganization helping families facing a pediatric cancer diagnosis. She is on the planningcommittee for the bowling fundraiser and gala for the 31:8 Project focusing their effortsto fight human trafficking, and volunteers with over two dozen other organizationshelping them to more effectively and efficiently serve their mission.

A self-described audiobook lover with plenty of windshield time, Dana spends her freehours crocheting, bargain hunting, and attending live concerts (often featuring herhusband’s band).
Her guiding belief comes from Winston Churchill:“We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.”]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71874793Tue, 05 May 2026 11:58:47 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeBorn and raised by two public educators in Klamath Falls, Oregon—the “City ofSunshine”—Dana Henry’s life has been shaped by lifelong learning, showing up,stepping in, and serving wherever she lands. A driven student and athlete, Dana graduated high...
A driven student and athlete, Dana graduated high school in three years and attendedthe University of Nevada, Reno, becoming the first unrecruited walk-on under CoachDevin Scruggs eventually working her way up to earning a division I scholarship herjunior year. She competed in two NCAA national tournaments, earned All-WACAcademic honors three times, set weight room records, served as a student senator,and was named Outstanding Senior for the university all while balancing leadership,academics, and competition.

With degrees spanning massage therapy, HR, accounting, speech pathology, and anMBA in strategic management, her unconventional educational path reflects acommitment to learning and public service. A dedicated public servant, she has heldprofessional roles in education, nonprofits, and government. Currently, with the State ofNorth Dakota Information Technology Department, she fills the role of Staff Accountant,Culture Rise training facilitator, and was elected to serve a 6-year term on the StatePersonnel Board. She just celebrated her 5 th year as a state employee and looksforward to the next 25.

Athletics continue to anchor her identity. Today, Dana plays in the top women’s leaguein Bismarck and is a high school and collegiate volleyball official. She made history in2023 as the first female wrestling official in North Dakota, officiating the inauguralstate girls’ dual tournament at the Fargodome.

Moving to a new state every few years, she found connection through service. Thatphilosophy became her pageant platform—GIVE: Get Involved in VolunteerEfforts—turning interest into action and passion into purpose.

Her journey into pageantry began at age six as a “little sister” in the Miss KlamathCounty pageant, an experience that sparked a lifelong passion for service, mentorship,and community leadership behind the glamour of the crown. Dana competed in the MissAmerica Opportunity across three states, earning more than $12,000 in scholarships,and has continued in pageantry through marriage and multiple systems—earningnational and international titles including America’s SUPER Mrs., American RoyalBeauties National Ms., Miss Continental Worldwide, and Mrs. North DakotaAmerica 2025.

Offstage, she is deeply invested in the infrastructure of pageantry,serving as an emcee, judge, choreographer, tabulator, planning committee member, andaward-winning behind-the-scenes volunteer as the Veronica Villegas Best Volunteerfrom the Global Beauty Awards.

Today, she serves on three nonprofit boards; North Dakota Public Employees LocalUnion 4660, the Young Professionals Network, and Brave the Shave a state-wideorganization helping families facing a pediatric cancer diagnosis. She is on the planningcommittee for the bowling fundraiser and gala for the 31:8 Project focusing their effortsto fight human trafficking, and volunteers with over two dozen other organizationshelping them to more effectively and efficiently serve their mission.

A self-described audiobook lover with plenty of windshield time, Dana spends her freehours crocheting, bargain hunting, and attending live concerts (often featuring herhusband’s band).
Her guiding belief comes from Winston Churchill:“We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.”]]>1902falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-79-molly-mclain--71523832For a time, she served as the Executive Director for Dakota West Arts Council (DWAC).

Molly worked with farmers and ranchers in the Western and Central part of the state forseveral years where she advocated for family farm agriculture and vibrant rural andurban North Dakota communities. She has championed campaigns for healthcareaccess, access to local foods, and solid farm policy that benefit family farm agricultureas a statewide field director and organizational coordinator. She spent part of a decadecreatively activating volunteers for campaigns and engaging disenchanted anddisengaged voters.

Molly studied under public artists, mosaicists, and muralists for several years whileliving in Twin Cities neighborhoods creating public art and community gardens. Shepractices public art making in North Dakota through the community polytab muralmethod and mosaics and is diligently learning the Norwegian folk art of Rosemaling. She has been a recipient of the North Dakota Council on the Arts Traditional Folk Arts Apprenticeship on three occasions and spent a month in Sweden studying Swedish folk flowers through a grant from theAmerican Scandinavian Foundation.

Currently she runs an arts and consulting business called PlainsCraft and works withagencies specializing in creative community engagement, and public arts curation. She co-manages a farm and ranch business with her siblings, and recently became aCertified Farm Succession Coordinator.Molly has been a practicing, teaching, exhibiting, and public artist and advocate for the last 20 years. She is passionate about creative placemaking through performing and public art as well as pollinator habitats, local food systems, and sound farm policy. She serves on various boards and commits to volunteer for a number of local causes. Molly finds purpose in creative collaboration that furthers sense of community withingenuity and vision. She has a love for her family, kind people, the prairie, folk art andculture, the prairie ecosystem, Midwestern “Salads”, hotdish, and cuisine, and a goodjoke.

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71523832Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:39:50 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeMolly McLain is an artist, educator, and advocate originally from Valley City, ND.She has worked in the arts, public policy,national and statewide political campaigns, and with non-profits. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Arts and a...For a time, she served as the Executive Director for Dakota West Arts Council (DWAC).

Molly worked with farmers and ranchers in the Western and Central part of the state forseveral years where she advocated for family farm agriculture and vibrant rural andurban North Dakota communities. She has championed campaigns for healthcareaccess, access to local foods, and solid farm policy that benefit family farm agricultureas a statewide field director and organizational coordinator. She spent part of a decadecreatively activating volunteers for campaigns and engaging disenchanted anddisengaged voters.

Molly studied under public artists, mosaicists, and muralists for several years whileliving in Twin Cities neighborhoods creating public art and community gardens. Shepractices public art making in North Dakota through the community polytab muralmethod and mosaics and is diligently learning the Norwegian folk art of Rosemaling. She has been a recipient of the North Dakota Council on the Arts Traditional Folk Arts Apprenticeship on three occasions and spent a month in Sweden studying Swedish folk flowers through a grant from theAmerican Scandinavian Foundation.

Currently she runs an arts and consulting business called PlainsCraft and works withagencies specializing in creative community engagement, and public arts curation. She co-manages a farm and ranch business with her siblings, and recently became aCertified Farm Succession Coordinator.Molly has been a practicing, teaching, exhibiting, and public artist and advocate for the last 20 years. She is passionate about creative placemaking through performing and public art as well as pollinator habitats, local food systems, and sound farm policy. She serves on various boards and commits to volunteer for a number of local causes. Molly finds purpose in creative collaboration that furthers sense of community withingenuity and vision. She has a love for her family, kind people, the prairie, folk art andculture, the prairie ecosystem, Midwestern “Salads”, hotdish, and cuisine, and a goodjoke.

]]>1912falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-78-thomas-lawler--70852301
In addition to his military service, Thomas taught human resource management and business research and writing as an adjunct instructor at the University of Mary from 2020 to 2024. He earned both his MBA and bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Mary.Raised on a farm near Linton, North Dakota, Lawler values hard work and time outdoors.

When he’s not working, he enjoys hunting, especially bow hunting, for the patience, focus, and chance to slow down. He and his wife, Jaime, live in North Dakota.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70852301Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:25:57 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeThomas Lawler is the Director of the Lottery Division with more than 23 years of service in the North Dakota Army National Guard, including 21 years on active duty. Throughout his career, he’s held a variety of leadership roles in readiness, aviation...
In addition to his military service, Thomas taught human resource management and business research and writing as an adjunct instructor at the University of Mary from 2020 to 2024. He earned both his MBA and bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Mary.Raised on a farm near Linton, North Dakota, Lawler values hard work and time outdoors.

When he’s not working, he enjoys hunting, especially bow hunting, for the patience, focus, and chance to slow down. He and his wife, Jaime, live in North Dakota.]]>1998falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-77-julie-horntvedt--70567759 
Julie provides executive oversight for the Council's federally mandated initiatives, including the development, implementation, and evaluation of a comprehensive five-year State Plan. She is responsible for authoring the Council's annual federal performance report and work plan, ensuring alignment with both state and federal priorities under the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act. As a key liaison between the Council, state and federal policymakers, Julie works collaboratively with public agencies, advocacy organizations, and community stakeholders to advance policies and practices that improve the lives of people with developmental disabilities. She has a strong focus on capacity building, interagency collaboration, and community engagement. 

Julie also serves in several appointed and elected capacities that support cross-system advocacy and coordination. She is a member of the North Dakota Olmstead Commission, the Comm unit of Practice for Secondary Transition, Bismarck-Mandan Transit, and the North Dakota Cross Disability Advisory Council. She currently chairs the North Dakota Disability Advocacy Consortium and serves on the board of Uspire ND, contributing to statewide initiatives focused on accessibility, equity, and inclusive education and employment outcomes.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70567759Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:37:46 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeJulie Horntvedt has served as the Executive Director of the North Dakota State Council on Developmental Disabilities for the past nine years. In this leadership role, she is responsible for the overall strategic direction, administration, and daily... 
Julie provides executive oversight for the Council's federally mandated initiatives, including the development, implementation, and evaluation of a comprehensive five-year State Plan. She is responsible for authoring the Council's annual federal performance report and work plan, ensuring alignment with both state and federal priorities under the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act. As a key liaison between the Council, state and federal policymakers, Julie works collaboratively with public agencies, advocacy organizations, and community stakeholders to advance policies and practices that improve the lives of people with developmental disabilities. She has a strong focus on capacity building, interagency collaboration, and community engagement. 

Julie also serves in several appointed and elected capacities that support cross-system advocacy and coordination. She is a member of the North Dakota Olmstead Commission, the Comm unit of Practice for Secondary Transition, Bismarck-Mandan Transit, and the North Dakota Cross Disability Advisory Council. She currently chairs the North Dakota Disability Advocacy Consortium and serves on the board of Uspire ND, contributing to statewide initiatives focused on accessibility, equity, and inclusive education and employment outcomes.]]>1833falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-76-morgan-turner--70250879
Throughout her career, she has worked in many areas of addiction, to include evaluations, group therapy, individuals, grief therapy, trauma informed care, client centered therapy and now focusing on women specific treatment. 

Morgan’s drive to help women in addiction and focus on women with children only grew stronger when she had children of her own. Her priority became working to reunite the family unit, starting with mothers. Her opportunity came in June 2025 to use her passion and expertise to help exactly this group of women and children will at the New Freedom Family Center. This opened just a few short months ago in September 2025. 

The New Freedom Family Center focuses on parenting moms, mothers working within the foster care/CPS and pregnant mothers that are residential appropriate. There is a daycare provider on site for children 5 and under if children are currently with mom, allowing them to receive treatment during the day and work back into structure, regimen and routine in the evening. For those children within the CPS system, NFFC works to encourage unique visitation outside just a room in a center as well as when appropriate, overnight trials with those children, as a transition back into their parenting.

For the pregnant mothers, NFFC works to establish them with proper prenatal care, with a team onsite every other week to complete these visits as well as prescribe medications as needed for common medical needs. Further, are partnered with a behavioral health doctor, Geri Wolf, who is on site weekly and visits with most all women individually to aid mental health components, as they are willing.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70250879Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:20:55 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeMorgan Turner is an LCAC (Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor) and Clinical Supervisor practicing in Bismarck, ND. She is currently in her 11th year of counseling. She earned her Bachelors degree through Minot State University. She completed her...
Throughout her career, she has worked in many areas of addiction, to include evaluations, group therapy, individuals, grief therapy, trauma informed care, client centered therapy and now focusing on women specific treatment. 

Morgan’s drive to help women in addiction and focus on women with children only grew stronger when she had children of her own. Her priority became working to reunite the family unit, starting with mothers. Her opportunity came in June 2025 to use her passion and expertise to help exactly this group of women and children will at the New Freedom Family Center. This opened just a few short months ago in September 2025. 

The New Freedom Family Center focuses on parenting moms, mothers working within the foster care/CPS and pregnant mothers that are residential appropriate. There is a daycare provider on site for children 5 and under if children are currently with mom, allowing them to receive treatment during the day and work back into structure, regimen and routine in the evening. For those children within the CPS system, NFFC works to encourage unique visitation outside just a room in a center as well as when appropriate, overnight trials with those children, as a transition back into their parenting.

For the pregnant mothers, NFFC works to establish them with proper prenatal care, with a team onsite every other week to complete these visits as well as prescribe medications as needed for common medical needs. Further, are partnered with a behavioral health doctor, Geri Wolf, who is on site weekly and visits with most all women individually to aid mental health components, as they are willing.]]>2002falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-75-chad-oban--70003759
Chad currently serves as the Executive Director of North Dakota United, the state’s largest union representing educators and public employees. In this role, he leads statewide efforts to strengthen public education, protect workers’ rights, and advocate for strong public services for all North Dakotans.

Chad also chaired the successful statewide campaign that defeated a ballot measure aimed at eliminating property taxes, helping preserve critical funding for local communities, schools, and public services.In addition to his advocacy work, Chad is the co-host of the popular Plain Talk podcast alongside Rob Port, where he regularly discusses North Dakota politics, public policy, and current events.

He is married to former North Dakota State Senator Erin Oban and is the proud father of Evin, a third grader at Will-Moore elementary.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70003759Thu, 12 Feb 2026 03:53:13 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeChad Oban is a Bismarck, North Dakota native with decades of experience in government relations, politics, and public advocacy. Over the course of his career, he has worked on campaigns at every level of government—from presidential races to local...
Chad currently serves as the Executive Director of North Dakota United, the state’s largest union representing educators and public employees. In this role, he leads statewide efforts to strengthen public education, protect workers’ rights, and advocate for strong public services for all North Dakotans.

Chad also chaired the successful statewide campaign that defeated a ballot measure aimed at eliminating property taxes, helping preserve critical funding for local communities, schools, and public services.In addition to his advocacy work, Chad is the co-host of the popular Plain Talk podcast alongside Rob Port, where he regularly discusses North Dakota politics, public policy, and current events.

He is married to former North Dakota State Senator Erin Oban and is the proud father of Evin, a third grader at Will-Moore elementary.]]>2020falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-74-amanda-peterson--69621233
She serves as the Federal Liaison, oversees the state’s accountability process, and directs improvement efforts for underperforming schools. Amanda also manages several federal programs, including Title I, Title IV, and Homeless Education, and partners with agencies statewide to promote continuous and system-wide improvement. Prior to joining the NDDPI team, Amanda completed her master’s degree in school administration at the University of Mary and has served as an English teacher, instructional coach, and dean of students. She is also serving as a school board member for Bismarck Public Schools.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69621233Tue, 27 Jan 2026 14:15:31 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeAmanda Peterson serves as the Director of Educational Improvement and Support at the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI), where she leads and supports a wide range of statewide initiatives. With expertise in strategic planning, data...
She serves as the Federal Liaison, oversees the state’s accountability process, and directs improvement efforts for underperforming schools. Amanda also manages several federal programs, including Title I, Title IV, and Homeless Education, and partners with agencies statewide to promote continuous and system-wide improvement. Prior to joining the NDDPI team, Amanda completed her master’s degree in school administration at the University of Mary and has served as an English teacher, instructional coach, and dean of students. She is also serving as a school board member for Bismarck Public Schools.]]>1882falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-73-mike-chaussee--69420006
He believes everyone needs to know about assistive technology’s benefits because even if they don’t need or want it now, if they’re lucky enough to live a long life, they will at some point benefit from assistive devices.

His present and future were shaped by a North Dakota upbringing, a master’s level education,stints in broadcast journalism and higher education professorhood, and a family he can’t bemore proud of.
He likes to ask and answer questions. That likely comes from being a journalist and teacher.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69420006Tue, 13 Jan 2026 14:05:34 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeMike Chaussee. Mike’s top values are Freedom, Thoughtful Action, and Play. Not necessarily in that order. He tries to work those values into everything he does, including at his current job, which is  as Executive Director for a non-profit called...
He believes everyone needs to know about assistive technology’s benefits because even if they don’t need or want it now, if they’re lucky enough to live a long life, they will at some point benefit from assistive devices.

His present and future were shaped by a North Dakota upbringing, a master’s level education,stints in broadcast journalism and higher education professorhood, and a family he can’t bemore proud of.
He likes to ask and answer questions. That likely comes from being a journalist and teacher.]]>1999falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-72-kalen-ost--69250464
In his current role, Kalen partners closely with leadership and cross-functional teams to develop communication plans that support significant initiatives, enhance employee experience, and strengthen organizational identity. His work often includes writing executive messaging, managing multi-channel campaigns, and advising on tone, voice, and brand consistency.

A graduate of MPCG, Kalen received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Writing from Dickinson State University, before working for The Dickinson Press, the Jamestown Sun, the Anne Carlsen Center, Dakota Staffing, the Farm and Ranch Guide, Bis-Man Transit, and the City of Bismarck in a variety of capacities. Outside of work, Kalen enjoys getting lost in the storytelling of others, whether that be in a movie, video game, Reddit rabbit hole, or book.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69250464Tue, 30 Dec 2025 13:52:19 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeKalen Ost is a seasoned communicator with a passion for crafting compelling narratives that drive engagement, build trust, and support organizational goals. With a strong foundation in content development and stakeholder engagement while delving more...
In his current role, Kalen partners closely with leadership and cross-functional teams to develop communication plans that support significant initiatives, enhance employee experience, and strengthen organizational identity. His work often includes writing executive messaging, managing multi-channel campaigns, and advising on tone, voice, and brand consistency.

A graduate of MPCG, Kalen received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Writing from Dickinson State University, before working for The Dickinson Press, the Jamestown Sun, the Anne Carlsen Center, Dakota Staffing, the Farm and Ranch Guide, Bis-Man Transit, and the City of Bismarck in a variety of capacities. Outside of work, Kalen enjoys getting lost in the storytelling of others, whether that be in a movie, video game, Reddit rabbit hole, or book.]]>2063falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-71-heather-may--69068855
During Heather’s time at UD, she volunteered for the Marianist Environmental Education Center and coordinated their annual art and education show. Her world religions coursework led to attending a Buddhist women’s conference in Mongolia, her first trip to Asia. She hiredand managed the graduate assistants for her department, and volunteered for eventshosting international students.

Heather joined the Peace Corps and went  to China in June of 2013.  Heather was a Peace Corps volunteer teaching oral English to future English teachers. She learned that teaching and training adults is her jam. She served on internal PeaceCorps committees for peer professional support for teaching and edited the PC China gender equality and women’s empowerment monthly newsletter. She led ‘Teaching inEnglish’ training for her university’s faculty and local middle and high school teachers.

During her winter breaks, she stayed at Dhamma Moli, a Buddhist nunnery in Yangon,Myanmar, run by the Buddhist sisters she had met in Ohio, teaching English to nunswho were working on their PhDs. During service she earned Peace Corps’ TEFL(Teaching English as a Foreign Language) Certificate, and at the end of her service in2016, she accepted a 3-month position as a TEFL Technical Trainer for the new cohortof PC China volunteers. After leaving China,  She was hired by Fort Yates Public Middle School to be their English Language (EL) Coach and moved to Bismarck in November 2016. Heather returned to China as a TEFL trainer for 2 more summers, and in 2019, decidedto focus on adult education. She was hired at the North Dakota State Penitentiary toteach English Learners and GED classes. She was hired part time by the Bismarck Adult Learning Center (ALC) inJanuary of 2022 as an EL and GED teacher. In August, thanks in part to the wave ofUkrainian refugees, she was hired full time, teaching 3 English classes per day. While working at the ALC Heather became involved in Dakota TESOL, Teachers of English toSpeakers of Other Languages. She served as co-president of the organization in 2024and currently serves on their Executive Board as the Adult Education area interestRepresentative.

In August of 2024, Heather moved into her current role as Community IntegrationFacilitator for the City of Bismarck. This was a newly created position, housed in PublicHealth and funded by a grant from the state Office of Refugee Services. Heather is passionate about helping all area newcomers, but especially English learners, and believes that all types of success are related to some form of education.

Heather tries to approach every type of work with humility, humor, and her whole self,whether leading weary administrative staff in laughing exercises to lighten the mood orteaching The Hokey Pokey to Buddhist nuns as a way of practicing English (andallowing them to dance]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69068855Tue, 16 Dec 2025 03:33:49 +0000Bismarck Human Relations Committee Heather was raised in Youngstown, Ohio. She moved to the northwest corner of the state to earn her B.A. in Latin and Classical Art History at Bowling Green State University.During that time she was a member of the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve.Heather...
During Heather’s time at UD, she volunteered for the Marianist Environmental Education Center and coordinated their annual art and education show. Her world religions coursework led to attending a Buddhist women’s conference in Mongolia, her first trip to Asia. She hiredand managed the graduate assistants for her department, and volunteered for eventshosting international students.

Heather joined the Peace Corps and went  to China in June of 2013.  Heather was a Peace Corps volunteer teaching oral English to future English teachers. She learned that teaching and training adults is her jam. She served on internal PeaceCorps committees for peer professional support for teaching and edited the PC China gender equality and women’s empowerment monthly newsletter. She led ‘Teaching inEnglish’ training for her university’s faculty and local middle and high school teachers.

During her winter breaks, she stayed at Dhamma Moli, a Buddhist nunnery in Yangon,Myanmar, run by the Buddhist sisters she had met in Ohio, teaching English to nunswho were working on their PhDs. During service she earned Peace Corps’ TEFL(Teaching English as a Foreign Language) Certificate, and at the end of her service in2016, she accepted a 3-month position as a TEFL Technical Trainer for the new cohortof PC China volunteers. After leaving China,  She was hired by Fort Yates Public Middle School to be their English Language (EL) Coach and moved to Bismarck in November 2016. Heather returned to China as a TEFL trainer for 2 more summers, and in 2019, decidedto focus on adult education. She was hired at the North Dakota State Penitentiary toteach English Learners and GED classes. She was hired part time by the Bismarck Adult Learning Center (ALC) inJanuary of 2022 as an EL and GED teacher. In August, thanks in part to the wave ofUkrainian refugees, she was hired full time, teaching 3 English classes per day. While working at the ALC Heather became involved in Dakota TESOL, Teachers of English toSpeakers of Other Languages. She served as co-president of the organization in 2024and currently serves on their Executive Board as the Adult Education area interestRepresentative.

In August of 2024, Heather moved into her current role as Community IntegrationFacilitator for the City of Bismarck. This was a newly created position, housed in PublicHealth and funded by a grant from the state Office of Refugee Services. Heather is passionate about helping all area newcomers, but especially English learners, and believes that all types of success are related to some form of education.

Heather tries to approach every type of work with humility, humor, and her whole self,whether leading weary administrative staff in laughing exercises to lighten the mood orteaching The Hokey Pokey to Buddhist nuns as a way of practicing English (andallowing them to dance]]>1950falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-70-tom-gerhardt--68832743
Tom covered some of the region’s most memorable stories—everything from the 2011 Missouri River flood and the Craig Cobb saga to the Bakken boom, DAPL protests, wildfires, federal court coverage, and even Will Ferrell’s legendary Anchorman spoof at KXMB.In 2016, he stepped away from the anchor desk to join North Dakota United, advocating for teachers and public employees across the state. While there, he launched three education-focused podcasts, including The Cutting Ed(celebrating innovative teachers), Education Mindset (a real-time look at how educators adapted during COVID), and a deeper dive into teacher recruitment and retention.

Tom later joined ND Assistive, where he led statewide marketing and communications efforts to help people access life-changing assistive technology.Today, at DMA, Tom is helping usher in a new era of community media—supporting local creators, elevating underrepresented voices, and strengthening civic engagement across Bismarck and Mandan. He’s also a proud Rotarian involved in the Youth Exchange Program and a board member for the North Dakota News Cooperative.When he’s not at DMA, you might find Tom out for a run (he’s completed 11 half-marathons and one full), hiking with his rescue dog, sipping coffee or bourbon, cheering on the WNBA with his wife Brenna, or spending time with their five kids.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68832743Tue, 02 Dec 2025 14:58:57 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeBorn and raised in Bismarck, Tom Gerhardt brings a lifelong passion for storytelling, community, and public service to his role as Executive Director of Dakota Media Access. He graduated from the University of North Dakota with a degree in television...
Tom covered some of the region’s most memorable stories—everything from the 2011 Missouri River flood and the Craig Cobb saga to the Bakken boom, DAPL protests, wildfires, federal court coverage, and even Will Ferrell’s legendary Anchorman spoof at KXMB.In 2016, he stepped away from the anchor desk to join North Dakota United, advocating for teachers and public employees across the state. While there, he launched three education-focused podcasts, including The Cutting Ed(celebrating innovative teachers), Education Mindset (a real-time look at how educators adapted during COVID), and a deeper dive into teacher recruitment and retention.

Tom later joined ND Assistive, where he led statewide marketing and communications efforts to help people access life-changing assistive technology.Today, at DMA, Tom is helping usher in a new era of community media—supporting local creators, elevating underrepresented voices, and strengthening civic engagement across Bismarck and Mandan. He’s also a proud Rotarian involved in the Youth Exchange Program and a board member for the North Dakota News Cooperative.When he’s not at DMA, you might find Tom out for a run (he’s completed 11 half-marathons and one full), hiking with his rescue dog, sipping coffee or bourbon, cheering on the WNBA with his wife Brenna, or spending time with their five kids.]]>1970falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-69-sarah-kolberg--68608686
She is passionate about skincare and helping women feel confident and connected — and playing with skincare and makeup never gets old!She is a wife, mom to two boys, and dog mom to Daisy and Ducky. When she’s not working, you can usually find her biking, running, or spending time outdoors with her dogs, family, and friends. She also love all things vintage and thrifting — or as she likes to call it, “treasure hunting.”]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68608686Mon, 17 Nov 2025 22:18:06 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeSarah Kolberg grew up in McKenzie, North Dakota. She is a news anchor and lifestyle host on KFYR-TV. She anchors Country Morning Today, co-hosts ND Today, and anchors First News at Noon. She loves sharing stories that highlight the people, places, and...
She is passionate about skincare and helping women feel confident and connected — and playing with skincare and makeup never gets old!She is a wife, mom to two boys, and dog mom to Daisy and Ducky. When she’s not working, you can usually find her biking, running, or spending time outdoors with her dogs, family, and friends. She also love all things vintage and thrifting — or as she likes to call it, “treasure hunting.”]]>1942falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-68-kate-herzog--68415620Our guest today is Kate Herzog. Kate grew up in Mandan, ND and graduated high school there.  She then graduated from the University of North Dakota with honors, earning a BA in Communications while working at the Grand Forks Herald and living in Downtown Grand Forks.  She moved back to the Bismarck area and worked for the Bismarck Tribune before volunteering and then working for the Downtown Business Association starting in 2010.  
From there she became the Chief Operating Officer, as well as the Founder and President of the Downtown Bismarck Community Foundation 501c3 development arm, and President and Founder of the North Dakota Downtown Coalition.  She currently sits on numerous public and private committees and boards throughout the Bismarck and North Dakota region. She coaches high school girls golf and teaches junior golf lessons through her work on the DJGA board.Her passion is creating and supporting great communities.  Over her time working in Downtown Development, Bismarck has seen a turnaround in Downtown property values (up 150M), jobs, businesses, walkability, livability and housing. In her spare time, she  loves to golf, coach, drink too much coffee and spend time with her family and friends. She is revitalizing her small 1930s cottage home and enjoys bringing it to life.  
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68415620Tue, 04 Nov 2025 15:38:10 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeOur guest today is Kate Herzog. Kate grew up in Mandan, ND and graduated high school there.  She then graduated from the University of North Dakota with honors, earning a BA in Communications while working at the Grand Forks Herald and living in...Our guest today is Kate Herzog. Kate grew up in Mandan, ND and graduated high school there.  She then graduated from the University of North Dakota with honors, earning a BA in Communications while working at the Grand Forks Herald and living in Downtown Grand Forks.  She moved back to the Bismarck area and worked for the Bismarck Tribune before volunteering and then working for the Downtown Business Association starting in 2010.  
From there she became the Chief Operating Officer, as well as the Founder and President of the Downtown Bismarck Community Foundation 501c3 development arm, and President and Founder of the North Dakota Downtown Coalition.  She currently sits on numerous public and private committees and boards throughout the Bismarck and North Dakota region. She coaches high school girls golf and teaches junior golf lessons through her work on the DJGA board.Her passion is creating and supporting great communities.  Over her time working in Downtown Development, Bismarck has seen a turnaround in Downtown property values (up 150M), jobs, businesses, walkability, livability and housing. In her spare time, she  loves to golf, coach, drink too much coffee and spend time with her family and friends. She is revitalizing her small 1930s cottage home and enjoys bringing it to life.  
]]>2091falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-67-sandy-mcmerty--68227197
During her free-time, Sandy is back-up barista for her husband Matt. Together they own The Gifted Bean Coffee House, in the Bismarck Veteran’s Memorial Public Library. The Gifted Bean seeks to hire and inspire individuals with unique talents and abilities, like their son and future owner, Cristian, who has Down syndrome.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68227197Tue, 21 Oct 2025 13:44:42 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeSandy is an innovative leader and communication strategist who is passionate about building engaging culture to get results. She currently serves as Deputy Secretary of the Office of the Secretary of State and has held leadership roles in multiple...
During her free-time, Sandy is back-up barista for her husband Matt. Together they own The Gifted Bean Coffee House, in the Bismarck Veteran’s Memorial Public Library. The Gifted Bean seeks to hire and inspire individuals with unique talents and abilities, like their son and future owner, Cristian, who has Down syndrome.]]>1957falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-66-cassie-staiger--68044165Cassie Steiger is the owner of Curated Travel Co., a travel agency she launched in 2014 to offer a more personalized, concierge-style approach to travel planning. What began with destination weddings and honeymoons has grown into custom European getaways, African adventures, cruises, and warm-weather escapes—always with the same high-touch service at its core.Born and raised in North Dakota, Cassie values the small-town pace of life but has always felt the pull to explore the world—and help others do the same.

 In 2021, she was named North Dakota Women’s Entrepreneur of the Year for her innovative response to the pandemic, launching a training program to empower other travel advisors. Today, she continues mentoring advisors while planning unforgettable trips for her clients.Now entering a new season of motherhood with one daughter off to college, Cassie is embracing the change with gratitude, intention, and a few more stamps in her passport. When she’s not working or traveling with her partner Brad, she’s cheering on her youngest daughter Avery in sports, catching up over coffee, visiting her granddaughter or practicing yoga—next stop: Mexico!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68044165Tue, 07 Oct 2025 09:53:26 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeCassie Steiger is the owner of Curated Travel Co., a travel agency she launched in 2014 to offer a more personalized, concierge-style approach to travel planning. What began with destination weddings and honeymoons has grown into custom European...Cassie Steiger is the owner of Curated Travel Co., a travel agency she launched in 2014 to offer a more personalized, concierge-style approach to travel planning. What began with destination weddings and honeymoons has grown into custom European getaways, African adventures, cruises, and warm-weather escapes—always with the same high-touch service at its core.Born and raised in North Dakota, Cassie values the small-town pace of life but has always felt the pull to explore the world—and help others do the same.

 In 2021, she was named North Dakota Women’s Entrepreneur of the Year for her innovative response to the pandemic, launching a training program to empower other travel advisors. Today, she continues mentoring advisors while planning unforgettable trips for her clients.Now entering a new season of motherhood with one daughter off to college, Cassie is embracing the change with gratitude, intention, and a few more stamps in her passport. When she’s not working or traveling with her partner Brad, she’s cheering on her youngest daughter Avery in sports, catching up over coffee, visiting her granddaughter or practicing yoga—next stop: Mexico!]]>1786falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-65-jason-grueneich--67895823Jason Grueneich is fighting for HIV advocacy and recovery support in North Dakota. Drawing on his experience as an HIV-positive man who has experienced homelessness and addiction, he has helped launch and lead transformative initiatives: North Dakota’s HIV Peer Navigation Program, Bismarck’s first LGBTQ+ recovery group and the state’s first nonprofit dedicated to people living with HIV—Shine Bright & Live.

Jason leads with vulnerability, wisdom and a strong belief in people’s capacity to heal. He is known for his magnetic presence, charismatic communication and ability to bring people together, even in tense situations. He chairs the North Dakota HIV Advisory Board, has shaped public policy around LGBTQ+ inclusion and HIV awareness and built coalitions that include doctors, police departments, libraries and faith leaders. He knows what it’s like to feel hopeless—and what it takes to walk through fire and emerge as a force for others.

With his Bush Fellowship grant, Jason will focus on personal healing as a foundation for his growth as a leader, deepen his nonprofit leadership skills and develop a long-term vision for destigmatizing HIV in rural America.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67895823Thu, 25 Sep 2025 13:50:17 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeJason Grueneich is fighting for HIV advocacy and recovery support in North Dakota. Drawing on his experience as an HIV-positive man who has experienced homelessness and addiction, he has helped launch and lead transformative initiatives: North...Jason Grueneich is fighting for HIV advocacy and recovery support in North Dakota. Drawing on his experience as an HIV-positive man who has experienced homelessness and addiction, he has helped launch and lead transformative initiatives: North Dakota’s HIV Peer Navigation Program, Bismarck’s first LGBTQ+ recovery group and the state’s first nonprofit dedicated to people living with HIV—Shine Bright & Live.

Jason leads with vulnerability, wisdom and a strong belief in people’s capacity to heal. He is known for his magnetic presence, charismatic communication and ability to bring people together, even in tense situations. He chairs the North Dakota HIV Advisory Board, has shaped public policy around LGBTQ+ inclusion and HIV awareness and built coalitions that include doctors, police departments, libraries and faith leaders. He knows what it’s like to feel hopeless—and what it takes to walk through fire and emerge as a force for others.

With his Bush Fellowship grant, Jason will focus on personal healing as a foundation for his growth as a leader, deepen his nonprofit leadership skills and develop a long-term vision for destigmatizing HIV in rural America.]]>1962falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-64-tim-lucas--67683598Tim grew up in the Bismarck/Mandan community and returned to the area about 15 years ago.
He has lived in four other states and has a very wide resume in terms of vocations which helpedprepare him to be able to relate with virtually any group of people. He serves as Pastor at 3:16Church in Mandan, ND; which he helped plant in 2017. He also serves the first respondercommunity through Crisis Care Chaplaincy. He holds positions on two non-profit boards andfinds time to get to the golf course occasionally too. He is married to his wife, Cindi, and theyhave a Doberman named Jake, whose Sleep Number is 53. He also has an adult daughter wholives in Fargo. Tim believes in getting involved in our community and serving others.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67683598Tue, 09 Sep 2025 01:32:54 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeTim grew up in the Bismarck/Mandan community and returned to the area about 15 years ago. He has lived in four other states and has a very wide resume in terms of vocations which helpedprepare him to be able to relate with virtually any group of...Tim grew up in the Bismarck/Mandan community and returned to the area about 15 years ago.
He has lived in four other states and has a very wide resume in terms of vocations which helpedprepare him to be able to relate with virtually any group of people. He serves as Pastor at 3:16Church in Mandan, ND; which he helped plant in 2017. He also serves the first respondercommunity through Crisis Care Chaplaincy. He holds positions on two non-profit boards andfinds time to get to the golf course occasionally too. He is married to his wife, Cindi, and theyhave a Doberman named Jake, whose Sleep Number is 53. He also has an adult daughter wholives in Fargo. Tim believes in getting involved in our community and serving others.]]>1864falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-63-sherrice-roness--67510608https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67510608Mon, 25 Aug 2025 20:33:10 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeSherrice Roness is the Students in Transition Coordinator or Homeless Liaison forBismarck Public Schools.  She has been in this position for 9 years.  She has been aLBSW (Licensed Social worker) in ND for 25 years. All 25 years of her career havebeen...1967falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-62-katie-cashman-fitzsimmons--67335532
Katie resides in Bismarck, North Dakota where she serves in her day job as the Director for Student Affairs for the North Dakota University System. In this role, she works with the 11 state colleges and universities (who enroll roughly 45,000 students) to advance all the initiatives that take place outside of the classroom. That includes substance misuse prevention, sexual assault prevention and intervention, student mental health, initiatives that support belonging and community, student health insurance, student access to voting, and many other things that pop up along the way. This would also involve briefing the State Board of Higher Education and developing policy that they approve which are in effect for the campuses. In addition to that, Katie serves on the legislative team for the System Office which consumes an inordinate amount of time every other year.

Auctions and higher ed aside, her real full-time gig is wife to her firefighting husband Owen and mom to their three young kids, Maggie (9), Connor (8), and Tommy (5). Katie has summited Mt. Kilimanjaro, used to enjoy running half marathons (ha! As if my joints would tolerate such abuse now), and holds the title of “First to all Fifty States” amongst her five siblings (but is tied with her sister Missy on the continent count). Katie loves playing cards, hiking, long walks paired with a podcast, baking, and spending time with her family. She is terrible at going to bed but really good at sleeping; she’s also terrible about planning meals but really good at eating; and she loves talking a bit game with Christmas lights but chickens out when it gets too cold and slippery. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67335532Mon, 11 Aug 2025 21:07:58 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeKatie Cashman Fitzsimmons is exactly one half of The Cashman Auctionisters, the auctioneering sisters. Her partner in crime is her Bozeman-based sister Missy. Since 2016, Katie and Missy have auctioned at over 250 events for charities, non-profits,...
Katie resides in Bismarck, North Dakota where she serves in her day job as the Director for Student Affairs for the North Dakota University System. In this role, she works with the 11 state colleges and universities (who enroll roughly 45,000 students) to advance all the initiatives that take place outside of the classroom. That includes substance misuse prevention, sexual assault prevention and intervention, student mental health, initiatives that support belonging and community, student health insurance, student access to voting, and many other things that pop up along the way. This would also involve briefing the State Board of Higher Education and developing policy that they approve which are in effect for the campuses. In addition to that, Katie serves on the legislative team for the System Office which consumes an inordinate amount of time every other year.

Auctions and higher ed aside, her real full-time gig is wife to her firefighting husband Owen and mom to their three young kids, Maggie (9), Connor (8), and Tommy (5). Katie has summited Mt. Kilimanjaro, used to enjoy running half marathons (ha! As if my joints would tolerate such abuse now), and holds the title of “First to all Fifty States” amongst her five siblings (but is tied with her sister Missy on the continent count). Katie loves playing cards, hiking, long walks paired with a podcast, baking, and spending time with her family. She is terrible at going to bed but really good at sleeping; she’s also terrible about planning meals but really good at eating; and she loves talking a bit game with Christmas lights but chickens out when it gets too cold and slippery. ]]>2141falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-61-amanda-yellow--67168808For nearly 12 years, Amanda has served as the Sales & Marketing Manager at the Bismarck Event Center, where she gets to do what she loves most: connect with people, support our community, work in the entertainment business and help bring unforgettable events to life. Before this role, she got her start at Agency MABU as a college intern, then joined the team full-time. From there, she took on a management role at AAA Travel and Insurance and later worked with Rasmussen College as a Professional Development Coordinator — each experience helping her to learn how to lead, collaborate, and grow.

Amanda earned her bachelor’s degrees in Business Communications and Business Administration from the University of Mary, and went on to complete her Master’s in Management and Organizational Behavior from Benedictine University in Chicago. Along the way, she also became a proud graduate of the Bismarck-Mandan Leadership Academy and was honored to be named the Bismarck-Mandan Business & Professional Women’s Foundation “Woman of the Year” in 2016. Amanda was also the Sakakawea Award winner for the Young Professionals Network and most recently was recognized by the Dakotas-Manitoba Minnesota Optimist District in 2018 as the Optimist of the Year and then the Bismarck Optimist Club 2022 Outstanding Optimist of the Year.

Outside of work, she loves giving back. Amanda has served on many different boards and volunteered in different capacities in the community, but some of her most favorite include coaching Basketball, Volleyball and Soccer for Bismarck Special Olympics, volunteering her time with the Bismarck Optimist Club on many different projects including the annual Easter Egg Hunt and Bowling Tournament and her previous involvement with the Young Professionals Network. In her free time, she enjoys camping, traveling and spending time with her husband, two kids and mini-labradoodle.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67168808Tue, 29 Jul 2025 05:21:40 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeFor nearly 12 years, Amanda has served as the Sales & Marketing Manager at the Bismarck Event Center, where she gets to do what she loves most: connect with people, support our community, work in the entertainment business and help bring...For nearly 12 years, Amanda has served as the Sales & Marketing Manager at the Bismarck Event Center, where she gets to do what she loves most: connect with people, support our community, work in the entertainment business and help bring unforgettable events to life. Before this role, she got her start at Agency MABU as a college intern, then joined the team full-time. From there, she took on a management role at AAA Travel and Insurance and later worked with Rasmussen College as a Professional Development Coordinator — each experience helping her to learn how to lead, collaborate, and grow.

Amanda earned her bachelor’s degrees in Business Communications and Business Administration from the University of Mary, and went on to complete her Master’s in Management and Organizational Behavior from Benedictine University in Chicago. Along the way, she also became a proud graduate of the Bismarck-Mandan Leadership Academy and was honored to be named the Bismarck-Mandan Business & Professional Women’s Foundation “Woman of the Year” in 2016. Amanda was also the Sakakawea Award winner for the Young Professionals Network and most recently was recognized by the Dakotas-Manitoba Minnesota Optimist District in 2018 as the Optimist of the Year and then the Bismarck Optimist Club 2022 Outstanding Optimist of the Year.

Outside of work, she loves giving back. Amanda has served on many different boards and volunteered in different capacities in the community, but some of her most favorite include coaching Basketball, Volleyball and Soccer for Bismarck Special Olympics, volunteering her time with the Bismarck Optimist Club on many different projects including the annual Easter Egg Hunt and Bowling Tournament and her previous involvement with the Young Professionals Network. In her free time, she enjoys camping, traveling and spending time with her husband, two kids and mini-labradoodle.]]>2243falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-60-megan-dooley--66979847
Megan is a proud member of the Bismarck Parkinson’s Support Group Board and collaborates with the Alzheimer’s Association and North Dakota Brain Injury Network to offer education, support, and hands-on therapy to individuals and their care partners. Her passion lies in walking alongside families through life’s hardest transitions—offering both expertise and encouragement when it’s needed most.Whether she’s adapting a home to support aging in place, leading wellness groups, or mentoring other healthcare providers, Megan is rooted in the belief that strong communities start with neighbors looking out for each other.

When she’s not working, Megan enjoys coaching and playing volleyball, boating, camping, and spending time with her family. She’s proud to call Bismarck/Mandan home and to be part of the network of helpers that keep this region strong.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66979847Mon, 14 Jul 2025 23:46:52 +0000Bismarck Human Relations Committee Megan Dooley is an occupational therapist and the founder of Innovative Therapy Solutions & Consulting, a mobile outpatient clinic that brings therapy and support directly to people across North Dakota—especially in rural and underserved areas....
Megan is a proud member of the Bismarck Parkinson’s Support Group Board and collaborates with the Alzheimer’s Association and North Dakota Brain Injury Network to offer education, support, and hands-on therapy to individuals and their care partners. Her passion lies in walking alongside families through life’s hardest transitions—offering both expertise and encouragement when it’s needed most.Whether she’s adapting a home to support aging in place, leading wellness groups, or mentoring other healthcare providers, Megan is rooted in the belief that strong communities start with neighbors looking out for each other.

When she’s not working, Megan enjoys coaching and playing volleyball, boating, camping, and spending time with her family. She’s proud to call Bismarck/Mandan home and to be part of the network of helpers that keep this region strong.]]>1873falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-59-janel-schmitz--66825947Janel Schmitz has called Bismarck home since she was six years old. She is married to Mayor Mike Schmitz, and they celebrated their 40 th anniversary in July 2024. Together they have two sons, Jason and David who is married to Kate and they have two children, Hazel and Harrison.
Janel’s career has followed many paths. Graduating with a degree in dietetics in 1984, she washired by MedCenter One as a clinical dietitian. She accepted many opportunities at the hospitalin program development and eventually left dietetics to start a variety of programs including theDakota Children’s Advocacy Center, the first comprehensive program in the state to assessabused children.

After 15 years at MedCenter One, she joined the nonprofit management world, working indifferent positions with Charles Hall Youth Services, Girl Scouts, the American Lung Associationand the American Red Cross. While at the American Lung Association, she played a significantrole in passing smoke free workplace legislation in North Dakota. During the 2011 floods, shemanaged national and international communications for the Red Cross. During this time sheachieved a master’s in business administration from the University of Mary.Working in the nonprofit sector concluded in 2011 when she accepted the Communications & Marketing Manager position at Bank of North Dakota where she is working today.

She enjoys walking, working with her church, reading, wine tasting and hosting dinner parties.Mike and Janel love their new role as grandparents and are frequent visitors to their grands andchildren who all live in Minnesota.

https://www.makeyourmarkbisman.com/
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66825947Tue, 01 Jul 2025 20:55:18 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeJanel Schmitz has called Bismarck home since she was six years old. She is married to Mayor Mike Schmitz, and they celebrated their 40 th anniversary in July 2024. Together they have two sons, Jason and David who is married to Kate and they have two...Janel Schmitz has called Bismarck home since she was six years old. She is married to Mayor Mike Schmitz, and they celebrated their 40 th anniversary in July 2024. Together they have two sons, Jason and David who is married to Kate and they have two children, Hazel and Harrison.
Janel’s career has followed many paths. Graduating with a degree in dietetics in 1984, she washired by MedCenter One as a clinical dietitian. She accepted many opportunities at the hospitalin program development and eventually left dietetics to start a variety of programs including theDakota Children’s Advocacy Center, the first comprehensive program in the state to assessabused children.

After 15 years at MedCenter One, she joined the nonprofit management world, working indifferent positions with Charles Hall Youth Services, Girl Scouts, the American Lung Associationand the American Red Cross. While at the American Lung Association, she played a significantrole in passing smoke free workplace legislation in North Dakota. During the 2011 floods, shemanaged national and international communications for the Red Cross. During this time sheachieved a master’s in business administration from the University of Mary.Working in the nonprofit sector concluded in 2011 when she accepted the Communications & Marketing Manager position at Bank of North Dakota where she is working today.

She enjoys walking, working with her church, reading, wine tasting and hosting dinner parties.Mike and Janel love their new role as grandparents and are frequent visitors to their grands andchildren who all live in Minnesota.

https://www.makeyourmarkbisman.com/
]]>1981falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-58-cory-thrall--66589821
After COVID, he was appointed back to Bismarck as a church planter.  Cory planted a church called Mission Bismarck.  The focus of Mission Bismarck was to be the hands and feet of Jesus to those in the community who had little interest in church or the church had little interest in them.  Mission Bismarck met at Comic Realms, a comic book store.  Where there was a need in the community, Mission Bismarck and those who believe in showing Jesus’ love rather than talking about it, were there.  In 2024, due to a quick change in the Dakota’s Conference staffing, Cory was appointed to Legacy UMC.  His appointment to Legacy brings with it the connections and workings of Mission Bismarck.  Legacy has embraced the immigrant and refugee population of our community.  Legacy UMC has included creative ways to worship that are unconventional.  Legacy is a place of welcome for all humans.  Cory believes that God loves all humans and he hopes to lead Legacy to love like God loves.  
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66589821Tue, 17 Jun 2025 15:08:14 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeCory Thrall grew up in Bismarck before moving to McPherson, Kansas to pursue an undergraduate degree in Pastoral Ministry.  After graduating from Central Christian College, Cory and his wife moved to Olathe, KS, where he attended Nazarene Theological...
After COVID, he was appointed back to Bismarck as a church planter.  Cory planted a church called Mission Bismarck.  The focus of Mission Bismarck was to be the hands and feet of Jesus to those in the community who had little interest in church or the church had little interest in them.  Mission Bismarck met at Comic Realms, a comic book store.  Where there was a need in the community, Mission Bismarck and those who believe in showing Jesus’ love rather than talking about it, were there.  In 2024, due to a quick change in the Dakota’s Conference staffing, Cory was appointed to Legacy UMC.  His appointment to Legacy brings with it the connections and workings of Mission Bismarck.  Legacy has embraced the immigrant and refugee population of our community.  Legacy UMC has included creative ways to worship that are unconventional.  Legacy is a place of welcome for all humans.  Cory believes that God loves all humans and he hopes to lead Legacy to love like God loves.  
]]>1951falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-57-deidre-hillman--66379041Deidre Hillman the founder of The 13th Hat, a corporate event planning company she launched in 2021 after serving as a state director for a nonprofit organization. With nearly 15 years of experience in event planning, Deidre thrives on creating memorable experiences—from fundraisers and galas to her personal favorite, conferences. She brings an energetic and strategic approach to every event, ensuring each one is both impactful and engaging.Deidre holds a Master’s in Business from the University of Mary and is a certified John Maxwell Coach, Facilitator, and Trainer, equipping her with the leadership skills to inspire and guide others in the event planning industry.Based in Bismarck, ND, Deidre lives with her husband, Matt, and their spirited daughter, Harper. When she’s not planning events, she dedicates her time to volunteering as a Wish Coordinator for Make-A-Wish and serving on the Dakota Zoo board. She and her family love adventuring together, with camping being their favorite summer tradition.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66379041Tue, 03 Jun 2025 07:45:32 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeDeidre Hillman the founder of The 13th Hat, a corporate event planning company she launched in 2021 after serving as a state director for a nonprofit organization. With nearly 15 years of experience in event planning, Deidre thrives on creating...Deidre Hillman the founder of The 13th Hat, a corporate event planning company she launched in 2021 after serving as a state director for a nonprofit organization. With nearly 15 years of experience in event planning, Deidre thrives on creating memorable experiences—from fundraisers and galas to her personal favorite, conferences. She brings an energetic and strategic approach to every event, ensuring each one is both impactful and engaging.Deidre holds a Master’s in Business from the University of Mary and is a certified John Maxwell Coach, Facilitator, and Trainer, equipping her with the leadership skills to inspire and guide others in the event planning industry.Based in Bismarck, ND, Deidre lives with her husband, Matt, and their spirited daughter, Harper. When she’s not planning events, she dedicates her time to volunteering as a Wish Coordinator for Make-A-Wish and serving on the Dakota Zoo board. She and her family love adventuring together, with camping being their favorite summer tradition.]]>2302falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-56-joan-klein--66170632Joan Klein was born and raised in Cebu City, Philippines. She moved to Salt Lake City, Utah with her mom, dad and brother at the age of 14 because of her mother's work relocation. Joan has an architectural background with a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from Woodbury University in Burbank, CA. She has worked in several architecture firms in Maine, North Carolina and North Dakota. 

In 2022, Joan and her co-founder started a non-profit called the North Dakota Asian- American Arts and Cultural Initiative. This non-profit is a platform for education, collaboration and celebration for Asian- American Arts and Culture. They have events that allow for an immersive experience for individuals and families in the Bismarck- Mandan community and beyond. Joan also volunteers for the Bismarck- Mandan Young Life. She is one of the leaders for the kids at Southern Central High School. As a committee member, Joan helps coordinate events for their fundraising efforts. 

Joan, her husband, son and daughter call Bismarck, North Dakota their home. She has a passion for architecture, photography, screen printing, drawing and several forms of paintings. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66170632Tue, 20 May 2025 13:30:04 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeJoan Klein was born and raised in Cebu City, Philippines. She moved to Salt Lake City, Utah with her mom, dad and brother at the age of 14 because of her mother's work relocation. Joan has an architectural background with a Bachelor's degree in...Joan Klein was born and raised in Cebu City, Philippines. She moved to Salt Lake City, Utah with her mom, dad and brother at the age of 14 because of her mother's work relocation. Joan has an architectural background with a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from Woodbury University in Burbank, CA. She has worked in several architecture firms in Maine, North Carolina and North Dakota. 

In 2022, Joan and her co-founder started a non-profit called the North Dakota Asian- American Arts and Cultural Initiative. This non-profit is a platform for education, collaboration and celebration for Asian- American Arts and Culture. They have events that allow for an immersive experience for individuals and families in the Bismarck- Mandan community and beyond. Joan also volunteers for the Bismarck- Mandan Young Life. She is one of the leaders for the kids at Southern Central High School. As a committee member, Joan helps coordinate events for their fundraising efforts. 

Joan, her husband, son and daughter call Bismarck, North Dakota their home. She has a passion for architecture, photography, screen printing, drawing and several forms of paintings. ]]>1746falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-55-jackie-stebbins--65939137Jackie M. Stebbins graduated with distinction from the University of North Dakota School of Law, and at age thirty-one, she became the senior partner of her own law firm, Stebbins Mulloy.
She primarily practiced in family law, criminal defense, and civil litigation.

Jackie was nationallyrecognized for her work by The National Trial Lawyers, Top 40 under 40 and Super Lawyers,Rising Stars. She was also named as a young leader in business and in her community by theBismarck Tribune’s and Prairie Business Magazine’s, 40 under 40.
In 2019, when she was only thirty-five years old, Jackie retired from the practice of law after anear-death experience with a rare brain disease, autoimmune encephalitis.

She later founded JM.Stebbins, LLC, as a writer and motivational speaker. Jackie is a frequent blogger on the JMStebbins blog and hosts the Brain Fever podcast. Her memoir, Unwillable: A Journey to ReclaimMy Brain, was published by Wisdom Editions in May 2022. Susannah Cahalan, author of the #1NYT bestselling book, Brain on Fire, praises Unwillable as “an inspiring story of a brilliantwoman’s battle with autoimmune encephalitis,” and that it’s “as moving as it is important.”Jackie lives in Bismarck, North Dakota with her husband, Sean, and their three children. In herfree time, she enjoys the great outdoors, exercise, reading, current events, and trying to be funny.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65939137Tue, 06 May 2025 12:56:17 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeJackie M. Stebbins graduated with distinction from the University of North Dakota School of Law, and at age thirty-one, she became the senior partner of her own law firm, Stebbins Mulloy. She primarily practiced in family law, criminal defense, and...Jackie M. Stebbins graduated with distinction from the University of North Dakota School of Law, and at age thirty-one, she became the senior partner of her own law firm, Stebbins Mulloy.
She primarily practiced in family law, criminal defense, and civil litigation.

Jackie was nationallyrecognized for her work by The National Trial Lawyers, Top 40 under 40 and Super Lawyers,Rising Stars. She was also named as a young leader in business and in her community by theBismarck Tribune’s and Prairie Business Magazine’s, 40 under 40.
In 2019, when she was only thirty-five years old, Jackie retired from the practice of law after anear-death experience with a rare brain disease, autoimmune encephalitis.

She later founded JM.Stebbins, LLC, as a writer and motivational speaker. Jackie is a frequent blogger on the JMStebbins blog and hosts the Brain Fever podcast. Her memoir, Unwillable: A Journey to ReclaimMy Brain, was published by Wisdom Editions in May 2022. Susannah Cahalan, author of the #1NYT bestselling book, Brain on Fire, praises Unwillable as “an inspiring story of a brilliantwoman’s battle with autoimmune encephalitis,” and that it’s “as moving as it is important.”Jackie lives in Bismarck, North Dakota with her husband, Sean, and their three children. In herfree time, she enjoys the great outdoors, exercise, reading, current events, and trying to be funny.]]>2253falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-54-paula-redmann--65663342Paula Redmann graduated with a BA in Advertising and Public Relations from the University of North Dakota. She received her Masters in Strategic Leadership from the University of Mary. Paula is very involved in the community of Bismarck. She is currently on The Bismarck Park Board. Paula was the Community Relations Manager for the Bismarck Parks and Recreation District. In this job, she played the leading role on the BPRD team to write the application in 2016 and 2017 for the Gold Medal, the highest honor in the parks and recreation profession. Bismarck was a finalist in 2016 and was awarded this honor in 2017. Paula was also the Marketing Manager for the Bismarck Tribune. 

Paula has been on a number of boards in the Bismarck community including The Bismarck Downtowner’s Association, The Missouri Valley Areawide United Way, The Bismarck Mandan Civic Chorus and The Bisman Community Foundation Advisory Committee. Paula is also an active volunteer and volunteers at Heaven’s Helper’s Closet 701 and Furry Friends Rockin’ Rescue. 

Show quoted text
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65663342Tue, 22 Apr 2025 12:08:59 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteePaula Redmann graduated with a BA in Advertising and Public Relations from the University of North Dakota. She received her Masters in Strategic Leadership from the University of Mary. Paula is very involved in the community of Bismarck. She is...Paula Redmann graduated with a BA in Advertising and Public Relations from the University of North Dakota. She received her Masters in Strategic Leadership from the University of Mary. Paula is very involved in the community of Bismarck. She is currently on The Bismarck Park Board. Paula was the Community Relations Manager for the Bismarck Parks and Recreation District. In this job, she played the leading role on the BPRD team to write the application in 2016 and 2017 for the Gold Medal, the highest honor in the parks and recreation profession. Bismarck was a finalist in 2016 and was awarded this honor in 2017. Paula was also the Marketing Manager for the Bismarck Tribune. 

Paula has been on a number of boards in the Bismarck community including The Bismarck Downtowner’s Association, The Missouri Valley Areawide United Way, The Bismarck Mandan Civic Chorus and The Bisman Community Foundation Advisory Committee. Paula is also an active volunteer and volunteers at Heaven’s Helper’s Closet 701 and Furry Friends Rockin’ Rescue. 

Show quoted text
]]>1843falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-53-andrew-hershey--65441405
When Andrew was 9 years old, he was on a little league baseball team in Ellison Bay, Wisconsin. They lost every game back in 2003, but the memories of getting ice cream with his team were never forgotten! The desire to bring families together, to dream about life, to make the hard days less hard, and the good days even better. Ice cream has a way of bringing people together and to experience the little joys of life. With a heart to make a difference in families, the local community, and in the world, ice cream becomes more than just a treat on a hot summer day! Andrew also became the owner of Boneshaker Coffee in 2024 and incorporated FOMO 10/40 Creamery into that location.  If you need a caffeine fix or a sweet treat, Andrew has you covered! 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65441405Tue, 08 Apr 2025 12:52:37 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeAndrew Hershey founded FOMO 10/40 CREAMERY in 2019 after spending a year traveling around the world doing missions work. For Andrew, it’s more than just ice cream, it's about making a difference in the world. During his time abroad he discovered how...
When Andrew was 9 years old, he was on a little league baseball team in Ellison Bay, Wisconsin. They lost every game back in 2003, but the memories of getting ice cream with his team were never forgotten! The desire to bring families together, to dream about life, to make the hard days less hard, and the good days even better. Ice cream has a way of bringing people together and to experience the little joys of life. With a heart to make a difference in families, the local community, and in the world, ice cream becomes more than just a treat on a hot summer day! Andrew also became the owner of Boneshaker Coffee in 2024 and incorporated FOMO 10/40 Creamery into that location.  If you need a caffeine fix or a sweet treat, Andrew has you covered! 
]]>1878falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-52-mary-van-sickle--65091282Prior to DMA, Mary worked in a variety of marketing, economic development, government, and non-profit management positions.

She was the Executive Director for the Bismarck Downtowners, the Marketing Director for the Bismarck Civic Center and the Economic Development Specialist for the Bismarck-Mandan Development Assn. She has served in various leadership roles, and on numerous committees locally and nationally and is the past chair of the national Board of Directors for the Alliance for Community Media.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65091282Tue, 25 Mar 2025 15:03:34 +0000Bismarck Human Relations Committee Mary Van Sickle is the Executive Director of Dakota Media Access (DMA) in Bismarck, ND. DMA is an award-winning, non-profit community media and training organization which provides Government and Community Media services in the Bismarck Mandan area. ...Prior to DMA, Mary worked in a variety of marketing, economic development, government, and non-profit management positions.

She was the Executive Director for the Bismarck Downtowners, the Marketing Director for the Bismarck Civic Center and the Economic Development Specialist for the Bismarck-Mandan Development Assn. She has served in various leadership roles, and on numerous committees locally and nationally and is the past chair of the national Board of Directors for the Alliance for Community Media.]]>2015falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-51-chaplain-maj-chad-gion--64799657Chaplain (MAJ) Chad Gion is a Catholic Priest ordained in 2002.  He has served as a priest in the Diocese of Bismarck in western North Dakota for twenty-one years.  His primary responsibility has been as a pastor at various parishes across the Diocese. Chaplain Gion’s military service began in 2013 when he was commissioned as a 1st Lieutenant in the North Dakota Army National Guard.  Chaplain Gion was deployed to Kosovo for three months to provide chaplain support to the 30th Armored Brigade, an Army Guard unit from North Carolina.  His first assignment was as chaplain to the 1/112th Aviation Battalion.  In 2018 he was transferred to the 164th Engineering Battalion where he served for 4 years. Chaplain Gion is currently assigned to 68th Troop Command.

Chaplain Gion graduated from Regent Public High School, ND in 1994.  He received a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from North Dakota State University.  He attended the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis, MN where he received a master’s in divinity in 2002. Chaplain  Gion completed the Basic Officer Leadership Course in 2014, Captain’s Career Course in 2018, and ILE in 2024.

He lives and works in Sioux County, North Dakota, the northern portion of the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation.  He is the pastor of the Catholic Indian Mission, consisting of five parishes and Saint Bernard Mission School (K-8).In August of 2024, Chaplain  (MAJ) Gion was hired to serve as the State Support Chaplain for the North Dakota National Guard. In this role, he develops training events for the North Dakota Chaplain Corps. He provides direct support to the full-time staff of the North Dakota National Guard. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64799657Tue, 11 Mar 2025 01:04:10 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeChaplain (MAJ) Chad Gion is a Catholic Priest ordained in 2002.  He has served as a priest in the Diocese of Bismarck in western North Dakota for twenty-one years.  His primary responsibility has been as a pastor at various parishes across the...Chaplain (MAJ) Chad Gion is a Catholic Priest ordained in 2002.  He has served as a priest in the Diocese of Bismarck in western North Dakota for twenty-one years.  His primary responsibility has been as a pastor at various parishes across the Diocese. Chaplain Gion’s military service began in 2013 when he was commissioned as a 1st Lieutenant in the North Dakota Army National Guard.  Chaplain Gion was deployed to Kosovo for three months to provide chaplain support to the 30th Armored Brigade, an Army Guard unit from North Carolina.  His first assignment was as chaplain to the 1/112th Aviation Battalion.  In 2018 he was transferred to the 164th Engineering Battalion where he served for 4 years. Chaplain Gion is currently assigned to 68th Troop Command.

Chaplain Gion graduated from Regent Public High School, ND in 1994.  He received a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from North Dakota State University.  He attended the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis, MN where he received a master’s in divinity in 2002. Chaplain  Gion completed the Basic Officer Leadership Course in 2014, Captain’s Career Course in 2018, and ILE in 2024.

He lives and works in Sioux County, North Dakota, the northern portion of the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation.  He is the pastor of the Catholic Indian Mission, consisting of five parishes and Saint Bernard Mission School (K-8).In August of 2024, Chaplain  (MAJ) Gion was hired to serve as the State Support Chaplain for the North Dakota National Guard. In this role, he develops training events for the North Dakota Chaplain Corps. He provides direct support to the full-time staff of the North Dakota National Guard. ]]>2133falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-50-jason-tomanek--64535608Jason Tomanek is the City Administrator for the City of Bismarck, a position he was appointed to in February 2024. Jason began his career with the City of Bismarck in 2006 as a Community Planner. During those 10 years, Jason spent much of his time working with developers, property owners, and entrepreneurs to support the reinvestment and revitalization of Bismarck’s downtown neighborhood.

Jason is a Bismarck native and BHS graduate with degrees from NDSU in Landscape Architecture and Environmental Design, and a Masters Degree from the University of Mary. Jason is a member, and current Vice President of the Bismarck Historical Society and a producer of the History Hotdish podcast, recorded here in the studio at Dakota Media Access.

In his free time, Jason enjoys being outdoors, hiking, playing disc golf, kayaking, gardening, and searching for historic Bismarck relics and artifacts to add to his ever-growing collection of all-things Bismarck. Mr. Bismarck, as he’s known to his friends and coworkers, is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations for the City of Bismarck and serves as oversight for the planning and direction of all service functions across all 15 city departments.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64535608Tue, 25 Feb 2025 15:29:57 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeJason Tomanek is the City Administrator for the City of Bismarck, a position he was appointed to in February 2024. Jason began his career with the City of Bismarck in 2006 as a Community Planner. During those 10 years, Jason spent much of his time...Jason Tomanek is the City Administrator for the City of Bismarck, a position he was appointed to in February 2024. Jason began his career with the City of Bismarck in 2006 as a Community Planner. During those 10 years, Jason spent much of his time working with developers, property owners, and entrepreneurs to support the reinvestment and revitalization of Bismarck’s downtown neighborhood.

Jason is a Bismarck native and BHS graduate with degrees from NDSU in Landscape Architecture and Environmental Design, and a Masters Degree from the University of Mary. Jason is a member, and current Vice President of the Bismarck Historical Society and a producer of the History Hotdish podcast, recorded here in the studio at Dakota Media Access.

In his free time, Jason enjoys being outdoors, hiking, playing disc golf, kayaking, gardening, and searching for historic Bismarck relics and artifacts to add to his ever-growing collection of all-things Bismarck. Mr. Bismarck, as he’s known to his friends and coworkers, is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations for the City of Bismarck and serves as oversight for the planning and direction of all service functions across all 15 city departments.]]>2147falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-49-amy-hollar--64319396For Amy, servant leadership is the cornerstone of her educational and personal philosophy. She is an Assistant Professor of Communication at the University of Mary, where she herself earned her BA in Communication. She then earned her MA in Communication from the University of Nevada. Preparing students to succeed in today’s increasingly dynamic and complex world requires a great deal of effort, passion, and patience. 

Amy is a professor who believes it is her responsibility to know who her learners are, what knowledge and experiences they bring forward, and work collaboratively with students to open new doors and new ways of thinking in order to prepare them for their future.

Amy’s greatest passion is volunteerism and advocacy, and the betterment it brings to communities. She is actively involved in the community, serving as the Communications Chair for Soul 57 and the Chair of the Board for 31:8 Project. When she’s not in the classroom, you can find her watching a sporting event, reading a good book, or traveling. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64319396Tue, 11 Feb 2025 13:32:37 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeFor Amy, servant leadership is the cornerstone of her educational and personal philosophy. She is an Assistant Professor of Communication at the University of Mary, where she herself earned her BA in Communication. She then earned her MA in...For Amy, servant leadership is the cornerstone of her educational and personal philosophy. She is an Assistant Professor of Communication at the University of Mary, where she herself earned her BA in Communication. She then earned her MA in Communication from the University of Nevada. Preparing students to succeed in today’s increasingly dynamic and complex world requires a great deal of effort, passion, and patience. 

Amy is a professor who believes it is her responsibility to know who her learners are, what knowledge and experiences they bring forward, and work collaboratively with students to open new doors and new ways of thinking in order to prepare them for their future.

Amy’s greatest passion is volunteerism and advocacy, and the betterment it brings to communities. She is actively involved in the community, serving as the Communications Chair for Soul 57 and the Chair of the Board for 31:8 Project. When she’s not in the classroom, you can find her watching a sporting event, reading a good book, or traveling. ]]>1807falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-48-kris-mount--63686433
Kris Mount works for the Abused Adult Resource Center as the Coordinator of The Family Safety Center which oversees supervised visitation and exchanges for parents and their children. He also Coordinates and facilitates the SAVE Program (Solutions to Alleviate Violent Encounters) which is a 24-week program for men who have been convicted of domestic violence and other charges related to partner abuse.Kris is a member of the Bismarck-Mandan Civic Chorus, the Board of Directors of Dakota West Arts Council, the Board of the North Dakota Kennedy Center, and enjoys spending 3 weeks each Summer operating the box office for Sleepy Hollow Theatre and Arts Park.Kris has been active politically as an Election Judge, the Chairperson of District 35 Democratic-NPL and in 2022 ran for a seat in the North Dakota House of Representatives. He plans to run again in 2026.Kris returned to school and graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work from Minot State University in 2021.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63686433Tue, 14 Jan 2025 13:12:38 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 48 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Kris Mount. Kris is known for impacting people through his work at the Abused Adult Resource Center. Through multiple leadership roles in our Bismarck, Kris continues to serve others, making him a...
Kris Mount works for the Abused Adult Resource Center as the Coordinator of The Family Safety Center which oversees supervised visitation and exchanges for parents and their children. He also Coordinates and facilitates the SAVE Program (Solutions to Alleviate Violent Encounters) which is a 24-week program for men who have been convicted of domestic violence and other charges related to partner abuse.Kris is a member of the Bismarck-Mandan Civic Chorus, the Board of Directors of Dakota West Arts Council, the Board of the North Dakota Kennedy Center, and enjoys spending 3 weeks each Summer operating the box office for Sleepy Hollow Theatre and Arts Park.Kris has been active politically as an Election Judge, the Chairperson of District 35 Democratic-NPL and in 2022 ran for a seat in the North Dakota House of Representatives. He plans to run again in 2026.Kris returned to school and graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work from Minot State University in 2021.]]>1948falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-47-kurt-snyder--63525889Kurt Snyder began his career at the University of Mary where he received hisbachelor of science in addiction studies in 1998. He has worked in the addictionfield since 1999 and has served as executive director of the Heartview Foundationsince 2005. He is a Licensed Addiction Counselor, Licensed Social Worker andholds a master’s degree in management. Snyder is a graduate of the AddictionTechnology Transfer Center Advanced Leadership Institute. In 2011, hespearheaded the effort for Licensed Addiction Counselors to gain direct access tothe North Dakota Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) and NorthDakota became the first and only state to allow Licensed Addiction Counselorsdirect access to this tool and better monitor their patient’s controlled substancehistory. Along with positions as an advisory board member for the Mountain WestAddiction Technology Transfer Center, past chairman of the North Dakota Boardof Addiction Counseling Examiners, and past chairman of the North BehavioralHealth Planning Council, Snyder is a founding board member for the North DakotaProfessional Health Program, the monitoring program for impaired physicians.

Snyder has been awarded  the 2017 University of Mary Presidential Leadership Award, the 2023 Walt Odegaard Leadership Award from NDANO, and most recently was honored by Governor Burgum and First Lady Kathryn Burgum with the Phoenix Award at Recovery Reinvented. The phoenix is famous for rising from the ashesto be born again and is a testament to second chance opportunities and renewal.Kurt has been is recovery from addiction since June of 1993.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63525889Tue, 31 Dec 2024 13:53:22 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeKurt Snyder began his career at the University of Mary where he received hisbachelor of science in addiction studies in 1998. He has worked in the addictionfield since 1999 and has served as executive director of the Heartview Foundationsince 2005. He...Kurt Snyder began his career at the University of Mary where he received hisbachelor of science in addiction studies in 1998. He has worked in the addictionfield since 1999 and has served as executive director of the Heartview Foundationsince 2005. He is a Licensed Addiction Counselor, Licensed Social Worker andholds a master’s degree in management. Snyder is a graduate of the AddictionTechnology Transfer Center Advanced Leadership Institute. In 2011, hespearheaded the effort for Licensed Addiction Counselors to gain direct access tothe North Dakota Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) and NorthDakota became the first and only state to allow Licensed Addiction Counselorsdirect access to this tool and better monitor their patient’s controlled substancehistory. Along with positions as an advisory board member for the Mountain WestAddiction Technology Transfer Center, past chairman of the North Dakota Boardof Addiction Counseling Examiners, and past chairman of the North BehavioralHealth Planning Council, Snyder is a founding board member for the North DakotaProfessional Health Program, the monitoring program for impaired physicians.

Snyder has been awarded  the 2017 University of Mary Presidential Leadership Award, the 2023 Walt Odegaard Leadership Award from NDANO, and most recently was honored by Governor Burgum and First Lady Kathryn Burgum with the Phoenix Award at Recovery Reinvented. The phoenix is famous for rising from the ashesto be born again and is a testament to second chance opportunities and renewal.Kurt has been is recovery from addiction since June of 1993.]]>2153falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-46-emily-yanish--63353027Emily Yanish is currently the Development Director for Youthworks, and a LicensedProfessional Clinical Counselor. She received her undergraduate degree from St. OlafCollege in 2003, and her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from the Universityof St. Thomas in 2007. Emily has been employed with Youthworks since December2007, and has enjoyed numerous roles at the organization, including Coordinator for theShort Term Care and Assessment Center, Family Counselor, Program Manager, and nowDevelopment Director. Her work entails raising awareness and support for the work thatYouthworks does throughout North Dakota. Emily is married to her husband Lance, and together they have two children.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63353027Tue, 17 Dec 2024 13:39:24 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEmily Yanish is currently the Development Director for Youthworks, and a LicensedProfessional Clinical Counselor. She received her undergraduate degree from St. OlafCollege in 2003, and her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from the...Emily Yanish is currently the Development Director for Youthworks, and a LicensedProfessional Clinical Counselor. She received her undergraduate degree from St. OlafCollege in 2003, and her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from the Universityof St. Thomas in 2007. Emily has been employed with Youthworks since December2007, and has enjoyed numerous roles at the organization, including Coordinator for theShort Term Care and Assessment Center, Family Counselor, Program Manager, and nowDevelopment Director. Her work entails raising awareness and support for the work thatYouthworks does throughout North Dakota. Emily is married to her husband Lance, and together they have two children.]]>1894falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-45-holly-triska--63126718Holly Triska grew up in Wilton, North Dakota and began her career as a Peace Corps volunteer working in both Nicaragua and Guatemala.  After 4 years in Central America, she moved to Washington, DC where she led the Federal Programs Division at the Hispanic College Fund. Holly went on to serve as the Director of Graduate Studies in Int’l Economic Development at The Catholic University of America where she earned a Master of Arts from the Busch School of Business and Economics.

Following her mother’s diagnosis with a terminal illness, she returned to ND to focus on family. While she did not intend to stay, ND quickly reestablished itself as home. Community life was welcoming, filled with heritage, and opportunity. Holly became actively involved in welcoming and connecting newcomers to local resources and networks. She became ND’s State Refugee Coordinator in 2021.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63126718Tue, 03 Dec 2024 13:30:32 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeHolly Triska grew up in Wilton, North Dakota and began her career as a Peace Corps volunteer working in both Nicaragua and Guatemala.  After 4 years in Central America, she moved to Washington, DC where she led the Federal Programs Division at the...Holly Triska grew up in Wilton, North Dakota and began her career as a Peace Corps volunteer working in both Nicaragua and Guatemala.  After 4 years in Central America, she moved to Washington, DC where she led the Federal Programs Division at the Hispanic College Fund. Holly went on to serve as the Director of Graduate Studies in Int’l Economic Development at The Catholic University of America where she earned a Master of Arts from the Busch School of Business and Economics.

Following her mother’s diagnosis with a terminal illness, she returned to ND to focus on family. While she did not intend to stay, ND quickly reestablished itself as home. Community life was welcoming, filled with heritage, and opportunity. Holly became actively involved in welcoming and connecting newcomers to local resources and networks. She became ND’s State Refugee Coordinator in 2021.]]>2056falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-44-commisioner-john-risch--62812965John Risch was the highest-ranking union official ever to be elected from the state of North Dakota.  
He served the nation’s railroad workers at the national level full time in Washington DC from August 2009 through September 2019. Risch was elected national legislative director of the SMART Transportation Division (formerly the United Transportation Union) in 2014. He led the union in developing, communicating and executing the legislative, regulatory, safety and political positions. As national director he testified before Congress and at regulatory forums. He was also a presenter at numerous transportation, labor and Wall Street analyst forums. 
 
Risch is a native of Mandan, N.D. He was the North Dakota State Legislative Director for the United Transportation Union from 1986 to 2009, while also working as a locomotive engineer. He is retired member of Local 1344 at Mandan. Risch began his railroad career on Burlington Northern Railroad, working in the track department for two summers while attending college. In the fall of 1978, he hired out in train service and in 1979, he entered engine service in what is now BNSF Railway. He was a long-time international union officer, serving on the union’s executive board from 1991 until 2009.
 
While serving as the UTU North Dakota State Legislative Director, he testified hundreds of times at the state legislature. His focus at the state legislature included railroad, labor, tax, insurance and other issues important to working people. He was appointed by Governor George Sinner to the Education Action Commission and Occupational Therapy Board.
 
He was also appointed chairperson of the state’s Minimum Wage Commission twice, once by a Democratic labor commissioner and once by a Republican labor commissioner. In that role, he led efforts to raise the minimum wage and improve conditions of the workplace, including extending minimum wage coverage to farm workers, something the federal law and most states exempt from coverage.
 
Risch is a graduate of Bismarck State College and earned a bachelor’s degree in Labor Studies while working full time on the railroad from Antioch University of Yellow Springs, Ohio, where he studied collective bargaining, labor history, labor law, world labor movements and other issues related to labor.
 
The North Dakota Democratic-NPL Party honored Risch in 2018 with the Governor Art and Grace Link Lifetime Achievement Award. The award recognizes those who have dedicated a lifetime of service to the people of North Dakota, have represented excellence in the field of public service and have left a laudable legacy benefiting future generations. Risch also wrote a regular newspaper column for The Bismarck Tribune from 1991 until 1993, where he focused on labor, economic and tax issues.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62812965Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:11:18 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeJohn Risch was the highest-ranking union official ever to be elected from the state of North Dakota.   He served the nation’s railroad workers at the national level full time in Washington DC from August 2009 through September 2019. Risch was elected...John Risch was the highest-ranking union official ever to be elected from the state of North Dakota.  
He served the nation’s railroad workers at the national level full time in Washington DC from August 2009 through September 2019. Risch was elected national legislative director of the SMART Transportation Division (formerly the United Transportation Union) in 2014. He led the union in developing, communicating and executing the legislative, regulatory, safety and political positions. As national director he testified before Congress and at regulatory forums. He was also a presenter at numerous transportation, labor and Wall Street analyst forums. 
 
Risch is a native of Mandan, N.D. He was the North Dakota State Legislative Director for the United Transportation Union from 1986 to 2009, while also working as a locomotive engineer. He is retired member of Local 1344 at Mandan. Risch began his railroad career on Burlington Northern Railroad, working in the track department for two summers while attending college. In the fall of 1978, he hired out in train service and in 1979, he entered engine service in what is now BNSF Railway. He was a long-time international union officer, serving on the union’s executive board from 1991 until 2009.
 
While serving as the UTU North Dakota State Legislative Director, he testified hundreds of times at the state legislature. His focus at the state legislature included railroad, labor, tax, insurance and other issues important to working people. He was appointed by Governor George Sinner to the Education Action Commission and Occupational Therapy Board.
 
He was also appointed chairperson of the state’s Minimum Wage Commission twice, once by a Democratic labor commissioner and once by a Republican labor commissioner. In that role, he led efforts to raise the minimum wage and improve conditions of the workplace, including extending minimum wage coverage to farm workers, something the federal law and most states exempt from coverage.
 
Risch is a graduate of Bismarck State College and earned a bachelor’s degree in Labor Studies while working full time on the railroad from Antioch University of Yellow Springs, Ohio, where he studied collective bargaining, labor history, labor law, world labor movements and other issues related to labor.
 
The North Dakota Democratic-NPL Party honored Risch in 2018 with the Governor Art and Grace Link Lifetime Achievement Award. The award recognizes those who have dedicated a lifetime of service to the people of North Dakota, have represented excellence in the field of public service and have left a laudable legacy benefiting future generations. Risch also wrote a regular newspaper column for The Bismarck Tribune from 1991 until 1993, where he focused on labor, economic and tax issues.
]]>1824falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-43-justin-cancilliere--62621616Justin Cancilliere loves telling stories. Led by mythical dreams and astounding visions that can only be described through writing, he is in the business of scripting legends. His desire is to bring to life that which swarms in his mind and cascades into words. But it doesn't end there.​Justin created the BisMan Writers Guild in 2019, which is a nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting writers in North Dakota. He also co-hosts 2 podcasts: ParaTruth Reborn, which discusses and debates topics of the paranormal from both a Christian and secular lense; and Write in the Pickle Barrel (which can be heard on Radio Access), which is a podcast about the writing process. He currently resides in Bismarck, North Dakota, where he enjoys the finer things in life with his beautiful wife, Shelly.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62621616Tue, 05 Nov 2024 12:06:58 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeJustin Cancilliere loves telling stories. Led by mythical dreams and astounding visions that can only be described through writing, he is in the business of scripting legends. His desire is to bring to life that which swarms in his mind and cascades...Justin Cancilliere loves telling stories. Led by mythical dreams and astounding visions that can only be described through writing, he is in the business of scripting legends. His desire is to bring to life that which swarms in his mind and cascades into words. But it doesn't end there.​Justin created the BisMan Writers Guild in 2019, which is a nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting writers in North Dakota. He also co-hosts 2 podcasts: ParaTruth Reborn, which discusses and debates topics of the paranormal from both a Christian and secular lense; and Write in the Pickle Barrel (which can be heard on Radio Access), which is a podcast about the writing process. He currently resides in Bismarck, North Dakota, where he enjoys the finer things in life with his beautiful wife, Shelly.]]>1963falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-42-amanda-godfread--62461899 As a Regional Director for Make-A-Wish Amanda Godfread brings hope to others during challenging times, making her a changemaker in our community.


Amanda Godfread is Regional Director for Make-A-Wish North Dakota, a role she’s served in since 2018. A “jack-of-all-trades” in this position, she works to elevate the awareness and understanding of Make-A-Wish in the community and with medical professionals, is responsible for fundraising, volunteer recruitment and also does wish granting!  Amanda has more than 20 years of experience in communication and marketing, and has worked in the non-profit, for-profit and government sectors. She and her husband, Jon, have three children and live in Bismarck, N.D.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62461899Tue, 22 Oct 2024 11:19:18 +0000Bismarck Human Relations Committee As a Regional Director for Make-A-Wish Amanda Godfread brings hope to others during challenging times, making her a changemaker in our community. Amanda Godfread is Regional Director for Make-A-Wish North Dakota, a role she’s served in since 2018.... As a Regional Director for Make-A-Wish Amanda Godfread brings hope to others during challenging times, making her a changemaker in our community.


Amanda Godfread is Regional Director for Make-A-Wish North Dakota, a role she’s served in since 2018. A “jack-of-all-trades” in this position, she works to elevate the awareness and understanding of Make-A-Wish in the community and with medical professionals, is responsible for fundraising, volunteer recruitment and also does wish granting!  Amanda has more than 20 years of experience in communication and marketing, and has worked in the non-profit, for-profit and government sectors. She and her husband, Jon, have three children and live in Bismarck, N.D.]]>2030makeawishfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-41-sydney-helgeson--62089955Episode 41 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Sydney Helgeson. Sydney is a former Miss North Dakota.  She is a changemaker in the community through her advocacy work as the Resource Development Manager at United Way as well as her volunteer work she does in the community.


Bismarck native Sydney Helgeson is a change maker in our community. A 2019 graduate of Bismarck High and 2023 graduate of The University of Alabama, service has always been at the forefront of Sydney’s involvement. She served our state as Miss North Dakota’s Teen 2017, educating her peers on the dangers of distracted driving, and recently finished her reign as Miss North Dakota 2023, where she traveled the state spreading her service initiative, Live United: Building Stronger Communities Together. Sydney is continuing her advocacy for this cause in her new role as the Resource Development Manager at the Missouri Slope Areawide United Way. She hopes to unite people in our community by helping them find their passions and sharing how they can get involved through giving, advocating, or volunteering.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62089955Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:19:46 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 41 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Sydney Helgeson. Sydney is a former Miss North Dakota.  She is a changemaker in the community through her advocacy work as the Resource Development Manager at United Way as well as her volunteer work...Episode 41 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Sydney Helgeson. Sydney is a former Miss North Dakota.  She is a changemaker in the community through her advocacy work as the Resource Development Manager at United Way as well as her volunteer work she does in the community.


Bismarck native Sydney Helgeson is a change maker in our community. A 2019 graduate of Bismarck High and 2023 graduate of The University of Alabama, service has always been at the forefront of Sydney’s involvement. She served our state as Miss North Dakota’s Teen 2017, educating her peers on the dangers of distracted driving, and recently finished her reign as Miss North Dakota 2023, where she traveled the state spreading her service initiative, Live United: Building Stronger Communities Together. Sydney is continuing her advocacy for this cause in her new role as the Resource Development Manager at the Missouri Slope Areawide United Way. She hopes to unite people in our community by helping them find their passions and sharing how they can get involved through giving, advocating, or volunteering.]]>1900falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-40-carl-young--61321820Episode 40 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Carl Young. Carl is a fierce advocate for many in Bismarck.  Through his work with the neurodivergent community and a heavy focus on FASD, he is a changemaker in the community.  

Carl Young is a father first, an advocate and lobbyist in North Dakota. Mr. Young has experience speaking with large groups of people across socio-economic and professional lines. In addition to advocating at the state and federal levels, he has presented at several regional conferences about neurodiversity, special education advocacy and adoption. Mr. Young has also been a member of a few boards and organizations both locally and nationally. Currently, he serves on the governing council for the Affiliate Network at FASD United and the City of Bismarck Human Relations Committee. For the last 20 years, Mr. Young has advocated for those with Autism and other special needs. He and his wife of 30 years, Malette, founded a non-profit in 2018 to support those with neurodiversity, most notably Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and Autism. As parents of five children, they understand firsthand the struggles that come with getting an appropriate diagnosis and getting the services and support that children and families need.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61321820Tue, 10 Sep 2024 10:13:31 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 40 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Carl Young. Carl is a fierce advocate for many in Bismarck.  Through his work with the neurodivergent community and a heavy focus on FASD, he is a changemaker in the community.   Carl Young is a...Episode 40 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Carl Young. Carl is a fierce advocate for many in Bismarck.  Through his work with the neurodivergent community and a heavy focus on FASD, he is a changemaker in the community.  

Carl Young is a father first, an advocate and lobbyist in North Dakota. Mr. Young has experience speaking with large groups of people across socio-economic and professional lines. In addition to advocating at the state and federal levels, he has presented at several regional conferences about neurodiversity, special education advocacy and adoption. Mr. Young has also been a member of a few boards and organizations both locally and nationally. Currently, he serves on the governing council for the Affiliate Network at FASD United and the City of Bismarck Human Relations Committee. For the last 20 years, Mr. Young has advocated for those with Autism and other special needs. He and his wife of 30 years, Malette, founded a non-profit in 2018 to support those with neurodiversity, most notably Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and Autism. As parents of five children, they understand firsthand the struggles that come with getting an appropriate diagnosis and getting the services and support that children and families need.]]>1869falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-39-dawn-kopp--61165127"These are Your Neighbors" features Dawn Kopp. Dawn is the CEO of the Downtown Business Association of Bismarck.  As a small business champion, Dawn makes a local difference in our community.

Dawn Kopp is the CEO of Downtown Business Association of Bismarck, a position held since May 2007 and a member of the executive board of the Downtown Bismarck Community Foundation.  She is a Mandan native and graduated with a B.S. in Apparel & Textiles from  NDSU.  Dawn is a co-founder & board member of Capitol Shakespeare Society, an appointed member of the City of Bismarck’s Forestry Advisory Board, and a graduate of the inaugural North Dakota cohort of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program.  Dawn's hobbies include cooking, baking, reading, travel, and creating mosaics and mixed-media art.  Dawn is dedicated to building community and connections for all ages, all incomes, and all abilities.   ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61165127Tue, 27 Aug 2024 00:49:35 +0000Bismarck Human Relations Committee"These are Your Neighbors" features Dawn Kopp. Dawn is the CEO of the Downtown Business Association of Bismarck.  As a small business champion, Dawn makes a local difference in our community. Dawn Kopp is the CEO of Downtown Business Association of..."These are Your Neighbors" features Dawn Kopp. Dawn is the CEO of the Downtown Business Association of Bismarck.  As a small business champion, Dawn makes a local difference in our community.

Dawn Kopp is the CEO of Downtown Business Association of Bismarck, a position held since May 2007 and a member of the executive board of the Downtown Bismarck Community Foundation.  She is a Mandan native and graduated with a B.S. in Apparel & Textiles from  NDSU.  Dawn is a co-founder & board member of Capitol Shakespeare Society, an appointed member of the City of Bismarck’s Forestry Advisory Board, and a graduate of the inaugural North Dakota cohort of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program.  Dawn's hobbies include cooking, baking, reading, travel, and creating mosaics and mixed-media art.  Dawn is dedicated to building community and connections for all ages, all incomes, and all abilities.   ]]>2144falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-38-amy-cleary--60998977Episode 38 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Amy Cleary.  Amy is a Director of Public Affairs and is the Director of the Bismarck-Mandan Scholarship Pageant. Amy is actively engaged in numerous organizations in our community making her a local changemaker.

 Amy is currently the Director of Public Affairs for GA Group, PC in Bismarck. She specializes in government affairs and developing effective public affairs strategies for her clients. She brings nearly 20 years of experience in campaign management, corporate issue advocacy, and consulting for national political committees. Before joining GA Group, Amy built a successful track record working in over 50 campaigns spanning 42 states.In 2012, Amy managed Governor Jack Dalrymple’s successful campaign in North Dakota. She then served as Deputy Political Director for the Republican Governors Association.

Amy also founded Plain Stakes, LLC, a boutique public affairs and corporate issue advocacy firm by which she executed grassroots and grasstops persuasion programs and public affairs outreach for clients across the Midwest.

Amy enjoys volunteering in the community, serving on the board of Bismarck Dollars for Scholars and as the local director for the Miss Bismarck-Mandan Scholarship Competition. She enjoys reading, running and weight-lifting, community events, spending time with family, and cheering for the Wisconsin Badgers. She co-hosts a podcast, Welcome to Our Box, with her good friend, Amanda Godfread. Amy and her husband, Sean, have two young children]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60998977Mon, 12 Aug 2024 12:43:24 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 38 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Amy Cleary.  Amy is a Director of Public Affairs and is the Director of the Bismarck-Mandan Scholarship Pageant. Amy is actively engaged in numerous organizations in our community making her a local...Episode 38 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Amy Cleary.  Amy is a Director of Public Affairs and is the Director of the Bismarck-Mandan Scholarship Pageant. Amy is actively engaged in numerous organizations in our community making her a local changemaker.

 Amy is currently the Director of Public Affairs for GA Group, PC in Bismarck. She specializes in government affairs and developing effective public affairs strategies for her clients. She brings nearly 20 years of experience in campaign management, corporate issue advocacy, and consulting for national political committees. Before joining GA Group, Amy built a successful track record working in over 50 campaigns spanning 42 states.In 2012, Amy managed Governor Jack Dalrymple’s successful campaign in North Dakota. She then served as Deputy Political Director for the Republican Governors Association.

Amy also founded Plain Stakes, LLC, a boutique public affairs and corporate issue advocacy firm by which she executed grassroots and grasstops persuasion programs and public affairs outreach for clients across the Midwest.

Amy enjoys volunteering in the community, serving on the board of Bismarck Dollars for Scholars and as the local director for the Miss Bismarck-Mandan Scholarship Competition. She enjoys reading, running and weight-lifting, community events, spending time with family, and cheering for the Wisconsin Badgers. She co-hosts a podcast, Welcome to Our Box, with her good friend, Amanda Godfread. Amy and her husband, Sean, have two young children]]>1955falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-37-brandi-schmidt--60854148Episode 37 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Brandi Schmidt.  Brandi is a licensed clinical therapist focusing on trauma and addiction.  Her passion in helping others overcome obstacles makes her a changemaker in our community. 

Brandi Schmidt works in the Bismarck community in behavioral health as a licensed clinical therapist. She specializes in trauma and addiction. Brandi is also a 500 hr yoga teacher bringing yoga into her therapeutic sessions. She teaches at a local yoga studio. Additionally, Brandi is in the NDNG where she serves in public affairs; she has deployed twice. In her free time, Brandi enjoys traveling, reading, attending concerts, and catching a cat nap with her cats.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60854148Mon, 29 Jul 2024 23:02:34 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 37 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Brandi Schmidt.  Brandi is a licensed clinical therapist focusing on trauma and addiction.  Her passion in helping others overcome obstacles makes her a changemaker in our community.  Brandi Schmidt...Episode 37 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Brandi Schmidt.  Brandi is a licensed clinical therapist focusing on trauma and addiction.  Her passion in helping others overcome obstacles makes her a changemaker in our community. 

Brandi Schmidt works in the Bismarck community in behavioral health as a licensed clinical therapist. She specializes in trauma and addiction. Brandi is also a 500 hr yoga teacher bringing yoga into her therapeutic sessions. She teaches at a local yoga studio. Additionally, Brandi is in the NDNG where she serves in public affairs; she has deployed twice. In her free time, Brandi enjoys traveling, reading, attending concerts, and catching a cat nap with her cats.]]>1742falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-36-gabrielle-abouassaly--60707756Episode 36 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Gabby Abousassaly.  Gabby is a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Consultant and Vice Chair of the Bismarck Human Relations Committee. Her work in making Bismarck a more welcoming city make her a changemaker in our community.  

Gabby Abouassaly is a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) Consultant with Sanford Health in Bismarck. An Iowa native, she received a bachelor’s degree in human physiology, Master of Public Health in epidemiology, and Master of Health Administration from the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa. She moved to Bismarck after graduating in 2021 to complete a one year administrative fellowship program with Sanford Health, and transitioned into her current position in May of 2022. In her role, Gabby oversees DE&I strategy for the Bismarck region, provides guidance on implementation of DE&I initiatives, oversees the Internationally Educated Nurse program, and analyzes areas of opportunity for improved performance with value based care models. She currently serves as Chair of the Sanford Bismarck DE&I Council, Vice-Chair of the City of Bismarck Human Relations Committee, President of the Bismarck Mandan Young Professionals Network, and board member for the Bismarck Mandan Symphony Orchestra.  In 2023, Gabby completed both the Leadership Bismarck Mandan and Empowering Women in Business programs through the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC. 

In her free time, Gabby enjoys spending her time strength training at Sanford Sports, cooking and baking, tending to her community garden, camping, and spending quality time with her boyfriend and friends.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60707756Tue, 16 Jul 2024 14:41:40 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 36 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Gabby Abousassaly.  Gabby is a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Consultant and Vice Chair of the Bismarck Human Relations Committee. Her work in making Bismarck a more welcoming city make her a...Episode 36 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Gabby Abousassaly.  Gabby is a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Consultant and Vice Chair of the Bismarck Human Relations Committee. Her work in making Bismarck a more welcoming city make her a changemaker in our community.  

Gabby Abouassaly is a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) Consultant with Sanford Health in Bismarck. An Iowa native, she received a bachelor’s degree in human physiology, Master of Public Health in epidemiology, and Master of Health Administration from the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa. She moved to Bismarck after graduating in 2021 to complete a one year administrative fellowship program with Sanford Health, and transitioned into her current position in May of 2022. In her role, Gabby oversees DE&I strategy for the Bismarck region, provides guidance on implementation of DE&I initiatives, oversees the Internationally Educated Nurse program, and analyzes areas of opportunity for improved performance with value based care models. She currently serves as Chair of the Sanford Bismarck DE&I Council, Vice-Chair of the City of Bismarck Human Relations Committee, President of the Bismarck Mandan Young Professionals Network, and board member for the Bismarck Mandan Symphony Orchestra.  In 2023, Gabby completed both the Leadership Bismarck Mandan and Empowering Women in Business programs through the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC. 

In her free time, Gabby enjoys spending her time strength training at Sanford Sports, cooking and baking, tending to her community garden, camping, and spending quality time with her boyfriend and friends.
]]>1723falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-35-haley-strege--60574119Haley Strege is the owner of Grow Coaching Co., which is a social media management, coaching, and video content creation business. Haley helps create and post content, coach small businesses on improving their social media presence, offer video content creation, and sell digital products. She started in Real Estate Marketing in 2014 at a real estate brokerage in Brookings, SD. She received her South Dakota Broker Associates License in 2017, and her role shifted over time to focus more on social media and marketing within our company.In 2022,

Haley  moved with her husband and two daughters to Mandan. She was very fortunate to continue working remotely with my original employer in Brookings, and then formed her own LLC and added other clients to her portfolio. She  currently runs her business from home, while taking care of my three girls (5, 3, and 3 months).Being new to Bismarck-Mandan and North Dakota, I started exploring the area and filming video content in August 2022. This led to creating New to NoDak, which became a creative outlet for Haley. She focuses on North Dakota & Midwest destinations, stays, and businesses. In a few short months, she reached 1,000 followers, and is now at over 2,000. She has done collaborations with the Bismarck-Mandan Convention and Visitors Bureau, including being featured in their 2023 Visitors Guide. She  has also collaborated with Visit Fargo-Moorhead and Medora to feature their local attractions.

In January 2023, Haley met Tosha York and Hannah Kauffman through social media/work projects, and together they co-founded the Bismarck Boss Babes. They are a professional networking group for small business owners and career-minded women. Each monthly event is different and offers opportunities to partner with local businesses. What sets us apart is our focus on our social media presence which includes high-quality video and photo content to promote the women that sponsor and attend our events. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60574119Tue, 02 Jul 2024 01:45:16 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeHaley Strege is the owner of Grow Coaching Co., which is a social media management, coaching, and video content creation business. Haley helps create and post content, coach small businesses on improving their social media presence, offer video...Haley Strege is the owner of Grow Coaching Co., which is a social media management, coaching, and video content creation business. Haley helps create and post content, coach small businesses on improving their social media presence, offer video content creation, and sell digital products. She started in Real Estate Marketing in 2014 at a real estate brokerage in Brookings, SD. She received her South Dakota Broker Associates License in 2017, and her role shifted over time to focus more on social media and marketing within our company.In 2022,

Haley  moved with her husband and two daughters to Mandan. She was very fortunate to continue working remotely with my original employer in Brookings, and then formed her own LLC and added other clients to her portfolio. She  currently runs her business from home, while taking care of my three girls (5, 3, and 3 months).Being new to Bismarck-Mandan and North Dakota, I started exploring the area and filming video content in August 2022. This led to creating New to NoDak, which became a creative outlet for Haley. She focuses on North Dakota & Midwest destinations, stays, and businesses. In a few short months, she reached 1,000 followers, and is now at over 2,000. She has done collaborations with the Bismarck-Mandan Convention and Visitors Bureau, including being featured in their 2023 Visitors Guide. She  has also collaborated with Visit Fargo-Moorhead and Medora to feature their local attractions.

In January 2023, Haley met Tosha York and Hannah Kauffman through social media/work projects, and together they co-founded the Bismarck Boss Babes. They are a professional networking group for small business owners and career-minded women. Each monthly event is different and offers opportunities to partner with local businesses. What sets us apart is our focus on our social media presence which includes high-quality video and photo content to promote the women that sponsor and attend our events. ]]>1884falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-34-mayor-mike-schmitz--60415389Mayor Mike Schmitz is a shareholder/partner in Point CPA, formally Schmitz-Holmstrom CPA, with experience in supervising engagements, performing audits, and business and tax consulting services. He is a Certified Public Accountant licensed to practice in North Dakota. Mike holds a BS from the University of Mary with double majors in Business Administration and Accounting and MBA in Accountancy also from the University of Mary and has over 30 years of experience. Mike Created Schmitz­Holmstrom CPA June 1, 2019, when he purchased the Bismarck and Hazen offices of Widmer Roel PC where he was a stockholder/partner of Widmer Roel PC for over 15 years, he served as Senior Trust Officer for over five years, as the Director of Finance for a private company for two and a half years, as Partner in Charge of audit, review, compilation and tax engagements for five and a half years, and as manager and staff accountant for eight years.

Mike is currently a board member of the North Dakota State Board of Accountancy served as President July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2021, is a current board member of NASBA and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the taxation section of the AICPA, and the North Dakota Society of Certified Public Accountants. Mike has served and still serves on the finance committees for several local non-profit organizations and is a past member and past president of the Board of Trustees for the Bismarck State College Foundation. He previously served as a member of the AICPA Council, a member of the Professional Ethics Executive Committee of the AICPA, member of the Board of Directors, President, and Chair of the Ethics Committee, and member of the Taxation Committee of the North Dakota Society of Certified Public Accountants. Currently Mike is the Mayor of the City of Bismarck, being elected to that office in June of 2022.

Mike is married to Janel, they will be celebrating their 40 th wedding anniversary in July of 2024 he has three sons, one daughter in law and two grandchildren. In his free time he enjoys cooking and sharing good food with friends, family and neighbors.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60415389Mon, 17 Jun 2024 18:54:23 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeMayor Mike Schmitz is a shareholder/partner in Point CPA, formally Schmitz-Holmstrom CPA, with experience in supervising engagements, performing audits, and business and tax consulting services. He is a Certified Public Accountant licensed to practice...Mayor Mike Schmitz is a shareholder/partner in Point CPA, formally Schmitz-Holmstrom CPA, with experience in supervising engagements, performing audits, and business and tax consulting services. He is a Certified Public Accountant licensed to practice in North Dakota. Mike holds a BS from the University of Mary with double majors in Business Administration and Accounting and MBA in Accountancy also from the University of Mary and has over 30 years of experience. Mike Created Schmitz­Holmstrom CPA June 1, 2019, when he purchased the Bismarck and Hazen offices of Widmer Roel PC where he was a stockholder/partner of Widmer Roel PC for over 15 years, he served as Senior Trust Officer for over five years, as the Director of Finance for a private company for two and a half years, as Partner in Charge of audit, review, compilation and tax engagements for five and a half years, and as manager and staff accountant for eight years.

Mike is currently a board member of the North Dakota State Board of Accountancy served as President July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2021, is a current board member of NASBA and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the taxation section of the AICPA, and the North Dakota Society of Certified Public Accountants. Mike has served and still serves on the finance committees for several local non-profit organizations and is a past member and past president of the Board of Trustees for the Bismarck State College Foundation. He previously served as a member of the AICPA Council, a member of the Professional Ethics Executive Committee of the AICPA, member of the Board of Directors, President, and Chair of the Ethics Committee, and member of the Taxation Committee of the North Dakota Society of Certified Public Accountants. Currently Mike is the Mayor of the City of Bismarck, being elected to that office in June of 2022.

Mike is married to Janel, they will be celebrating their 40 th wedding anniversary in July of 2024 he has three sons, one daughter in law and two grandchildren. In his free time he enjoys cooking and sharing good food with friends, family and neighbors.]]>2157falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-33-renae-moch--60262627Episode 33 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Renae Moch.  Renae is the Public Health Director for Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health, an organization that provides vital services to our community.  Renae has been an advocate to ensure everyone in the community gets the services they need no matter where they are at in their life.

Renae Moch, currently serves as the Public Health Director for Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health. In this role, Renae directs the delivery of comprehensive public health programs and services for the City of Bismarck and Burleigh County. She is actively involved in the development of local community health services and collaborates with local health partners to address health and wellness needs in our community.

Renae is board certified in medical practice management (CMPE) and a Fellow in the American College of Medical Practice Executives (FACMPE) which is the highest level of distinction in the medical practice management profession. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a minor in Business Communications and an MBA in Healthcare Administration from the University of Mary in Bismarck, ND.

Renae has demonstrated her leadership skills through volunteer board service with several non-profit organizations. She currently serves on the board of directors for the National Association of City and County Health Officials (NACCHO) representing Region 8 at the national level and currently serves as a board member for Dacotah Foundation whose objective is to sustain a community-based mental health system.In addition, she has served as President for the North Dakota Public Health Association (NDPHA), North Dakota Medical Group Management Association (NDMGMA) and served as a board member for Bridging the Dental Gap, a dental clinic for uninsured, underinsured or low-income members of the community.As Public Health Director for Bismarck and Burleigh County, Renae has taken on leadership roles to address community health issues such as opioid and substance abuse, behavioral health and homelessness, and most recently the COVID-19 pandemic.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60262627Mon, 03 Jun 2024 13:51:42 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 33 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Renae Moch.  Renae is the Public Health Director for Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health, an organization that provides vital services to our community.  Renae has been an advocate to ensure everyone in...Episode 33 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Renae Moch.  Renae is the Public Health Director for Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health, an organization that provides vital services to our community.  Renae has been an advocate to ensure everyone in the community gets the services they need no matter where they are at in their life.

Renae Moch, currently serves as the Public Health Director for Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health. In this role, Renae directs the delivery of comprehensive public health programs and services for the City of Bismarck and Burleigh County. She is actively involved in the development of local community health services and collaborates with local health partners to address health and wellness needs in our community.

Renae is board certified in medical practice management (CMPE) and a Fellow in the American College of Medical Practice Executives (FACMPE) which is the highest level of distinction in the medical practice management profession. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a minor in Business Communications and an MBA in Healthcare Administration from the University of Mary in Bismarck, ND.

Renae has demonstrated her leadership skills through volunteer board service with several non-profit organizations. She currently serves on the board of directors for the National Association of City and County Health Officials (NACCHO) representing Region 8 at the national level and currently serves as a board member for Dacotah Foundation whose objective is to sustain a community-based mental health system.In addition, she has served as President for the North Dakota Public Health Association (NDPHA), North Dakota Medical Group Management Association (NDMGMA) and served as a board member for Bridging the Dental Gap, a dental clinic for uninsured, underinsured or low-income members of the community.As Public Health Director for Bismarck and Burleigh County, Renae has taken on leadership roles to address community health issues such as opioid and substance abuse, behavioral health and homelessness, and most recently the COVID-19 pandemic.]]>1856falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-32-jane-link--60111189Episode 32 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Jane Link. Jane is the Director of Engagement and Development for Dakota Children's Advocacy Center. Her work in promoting hope, health and healing make her a changemaker in our community.

Jane Link has been the Director of Engagement and Development for the Dakota Children’s Advocacy Center since April 2021. She was born and raised in Bismarck and graduated from the University of North Dakota in 2000 with a B.A. in Communications, specializing in Public Relations. Jane has over 15 years of experience in fundraising, advertising and business management. She enjoys helping the DCAC grow by increasing community awareness and support.Jane was the General Manager of the Dakota Wizards, the President of the Bismarck Bobcats, and the Director of Sales and Marketing for the Dacotah Speedway prior to working for DCAC. Janes boys keep her very busy - she has four of them. Her  husband is a Nurse Anesthetist at Sanford Health. She has an adorable 3-year-old golden doodle who loves to cuddle when she finds time to sit on the couch.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60111189Tue, 21 May 2024 12:09:42 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 32 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Jane Link. Jane is the Director of Engagement and Development for Dakota Children's Advocacy Center. Her work in promoting hope, health and healing make her a changemaker in our community. Jane Link...Episode 32 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Jane Link. Jane is the Director of Engagement and Development for Dakota Children's Advocacy Center. Her work in promoting hope, health and healing make her a changemaker in our community.

Jane Link has been the Director of Engagement and Development for the Dakota Children’s Advocacy Center since April 2021. She was born and raised in Bismarck and graduated from the University of North Dakota in 2000 with a B.A. in Communications, specializing in Public Relations. Jane has over 15 years of experience in fundraising, advertising and business management. She enjoys helping the DCAC grow by increasing community awareness and support.Jane was the General Manager of the Dakota Wizards, the President of the Bismarck Bobcats, and the Director of Sales and Marketing for the Dacotah Speedway prior to working for DCAC. Janes boys keep her very busy - she has four of them. Her  husband is a Nurse Anesthetist at Sanford Health. She has an adorable 3-year-old golden doodle who loves to cuddle when she finds time to sit on the couch.]]>2066falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-31-julie-jeske--59871065Episode 31 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Julie Jeske. Julie is a board member and volunteer for Rebuilding Together, an organization that provides assistance for people who own their own homes but because of physical limitations or income properly maintaining it can become an impossible task. Julie serves in a number of roles that impact our community. 

Julie has been a volunteer with Rebuilding Together since 2018. Currently, she serves on Rebuilding Together’s grant writing, bowling fundraiser  and public relations committees.Julie has been a resident of Bismarck since 2008 and works at Bravera Bank as a private banking officer. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from University of Jamestown and holds a Master of Business Administration from University of Mary. She was elected to the Bismarck Park and Recreation District board of commissioners in 2010 and will complete her fourteenth year on the board in June.

She’s a member of the Bismarck Optimist Club and the current vice president. For the past five years Julie has been involved with Capital City Christmas and chairs the  Breakfast with Santa event. Julie and her husband have three grown children, one adorable granddaughter and two dogs.

She loves to run and has completed 27 marathons – including two Dopey Challenges and one international marathon along with 16 half marathons. She’s also an avid golfer and enjoys tennis, biking, hiking  and pickle ball.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59871065Mon, 06 May 2024 14:48:39 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 31 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Julie Jeske. Julie is a board member and volunteer for Rebuilding Together, an organization that provides assistance for people who own their own homes but because of physical limitations or income...Episode 31 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Julie Jeske. Julie is a board member and volunteer for Rebuilding Together, an organization that provides assistance for people who own their own homes but because of physical limitations or income properly maintaining it can become an impossible task. Julie serves in a number of roles that impact our community. 

Julie has been a volunteer with Rebuilding Together since 2018. Currently, she serves on Rebuilding Together’s grant writing, bowling fundraiser  and public relations committees.Julie has been a resident of Bismarck since 2008 and works at Bravera Bank as a private banking officer. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from University of Jamestown and holds a Master of Business Administration from University of Mary. She was elected to the Bismarck Park and Recreation District board of commissioners in 2010 and will complete her fourteenth year on the board in June.

She’s a member of the Bismarck Optimist Club and the current vice president. For the past five years Julie has been involved with Capital City Christmas and chairs the  Breakfast with Santa event. Julie and her husband have three grown children, one adorable granddaughter and two dogs.

She loves to run and has completed 27 marathons – including two Dopey Challenges and one international marathon along with 16 half marathons. She’s also an avid golfer and enjoys tennis, biking, hiking  and pickle ball.]]>2075falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-30-jim-barnhardt--59586376Episode 30 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Jim Barnhardt. Jim is the founder of The Dream Center which offers a variety of programs to those in need in our community.  By providing services that many take for granted, The Dream Center provides Help for Today. Hope for Tomorrow.

Jim is married to Cindy and has 2 grown daughters and a grandson. Jim is a lifelong resident of the Bismarck/Mandan area. He has worked in retail business his entire adult life. Jim considers himself fortunate to have traveled extensively over the years, and firmly believes Bismarck/Mandan is the best place to live. Jim’s story of creating a Dream Center in the city of Bismarck started in 2016, when he woke with a vision for a meal ministry and services to help those in need firmly planted in his mind. After many meetings with community leaders, Jim and Cindy chose to partner with The Banquet in his quest to serve the people of our community. Jim got involved first as a Banquet Board Member  and then served as Banquet Board Chairman. 

In 2019,  Cindy and Jim made a trip to the Dream Center in Los Angeles to confirm Jim’s Dream Center application sent several months earlier. By May, Dream Center Bismarck was officially sanctioned. Fast forward to today, Dream Center Bismarck is a non-profit organization whose primary mission is to “Find a Need & Fill It”. In 2019, the Dream Center Adopt-a-Block program was started in Bismarck and currently serves up to 1,000  households each week. In May of 2021, Jim and Cindy made the commitment to build the new 24,300 square foot Dream Center Bismarck facility  with construction completed in April of 2022.

Today, The Dream Center Bismarck has gone far beyond Jim’s expectations. Tens of thousands of hours of meaningful volunteer opportunities are provided for the community and community needs are being met on a much larger scale than Jim ever anticipated. Jim believes no one should be food insecure, and the low-income people of our community deserve a chance to improve their life. Jim is semi-retired from his retail business and plans to spend the next several years leading Dream Center Bismarck in filling unmet community needs.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59586376Mon, 22 Apr 2024 16:08:19 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 30 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Jim Barnhardt. Jim is the founder of The Dream Center which offers a variety of programs to those in need in our community.  By providing services that many take for granted, The Dream Center provides...Episode 30 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Jim Barnhardt. Jim is the founder of The Dream Center which offers a variety of programs to those in need in our community.  By providing services that many take for granted, The Dream Center provides Help for Today. Hope for Tomorrow.

Jim is married to Cindy and has 2 grown daughters and a grandson. Jim is a lifelong resident of the Bismarck/Mandan area. He has worked in retail business his entire adult life. Jim considers himself fortunate to have traveled extensively over the years, and firmly believes Bismarck/Mandan is the best place to live. Jim’s story of creating a Dream Center in the city of Bismarck started in 2016, when he woke with a vision for a meal ministry and services to help those in need firmly planted in his mind. After many meetings with community leaders, Jim and Cindy chose to partner with The Banquet in his quest to serve the people of our community. Jim got involved first as a Banquet Board Member  and then served as Banquet Board Chairman. 

In 2019,  Cindy and Jim made a trip to the Dream Center in Los Angeles to confirm Jim’s Dream Center application sent several months earlier. By May, Dream Center Bismarck was officially sanctioned. Fast forward to today, Dream Center Bismarck is a non-profit organization whose primary mission is to “Find a Need & Fill It”. In 2019, the Dream Center Adopt-a-Block program was started in Bismarck and currently serves up to 1,000  households each week. In May of 2021, Jim and Cindy made the commitment to build the new 24,300 square foot Dream Center Bismarck facility  with construction completed in April of 2022.

Today, The Dream Center Bismarck has gone far beyond Jim’s expectations. Tens of thousands of hours of meaningful volunteer opportunities are provided for the community and community needs are being met on a much larger scale than Jim ever anticipated. Jim believes no one should be food insecure, and the low-income people of our community deserve a chance to improve their life. Jim is semi-retired from his retail business and plans to spend the next several years leading Dream Center Bismarck in filling unmet community needs.]]>2034falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tayn-ep-29-mandy-anderson--59348984Episode 29 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Mandy B. Anderson. Mandy is a life and leadership coach who inspires women daily.

Mandy B. Anderson, a highly skilled Certified Executive Coach and captivating TEDx Speaker, is the brilliant Co-Founder of RAYMA Team™, a renowned life and leadership coaching company. With her invaluable expertise, she played a pivotal role in the development of their groundbreaking leadership curriculum, RAYMA Foundations™, which revolves around the core values of RAYMA: Resilience, Authenticity, a Yes mindset, Motivation, and Assertiveness. This innovative program seamlessly merges the power of effective life coaching techniques with timeless principles of leadership. Born with a life-threatening disease called Cystic Fibrosis, she has devoted her life to turning disappointments into meaningful experiences and overcoming the obstacles life throws at her. In addition to her remarkable achievements, Anderson has also earned the prestigious title of Best-Selling Author for her critically acclaimed book, Dangerous Hope: Planting Something Meaningful in the Soil of Disappointment. This exceptional literary work garnered a 2022 Illumination Book Award, solidifying Anderson's position as a true literary luminary. When she's not transforming lives and inspiring others, Anderson can be found running, biking, or enjoying a steaming cup of coffee while viewing a beautiful sunrise in Mandan, North Dakota, where she resides with her loving husband, Nate, and their adorable goldendoodle, Indigo.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59348984Mon, 08 Apr 2024 16:47:41 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 29 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Mandy B. Anderson. Mandy is a life and leadership coach who inspires women daily. Mandy B. Anderson, a highly skilled Certified Executive Coach and captivating TEDx Speaker, is the brilliant...Episode 29 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Mandy B. Anderson. Mandy is a life and leadership coach who inspires women daily.

Mandy B. Anderson, a highly skilled Certified Executive Coach and captivating TEDx Speaker, is the brilliant Co-Founder of RAYMA Team™, a renowned life and leadership coaching company. With her invaluable expertise, she played a pivotal role in the development of their groundbreaking leadership curriculum, RAYMA Foundations™, which revolves around the core values of RAYMA: Resilience, Authenticity, a Yes mindset, Motivation, and Assertiveness. This innovative program seamlessly merges the power of effective life coaching techniques with timeless principles of leadership. Born with a life-threatening disease called Cystic Fibrosis, she has devoted her life to turning disappointments into meaningful experiences and overcoming the obstacles life throws at her. In addition to her remarkable achievements, Anderson has also earned the prestigious title of Best-Selling Author for her critically acclaimed book, Dangerous Hope: Planting Something Meaningful in the Soil of Disappointment. This exceptional literary work garnered a 2022 Illumination Book Award, solidifying Anderson's position as a true literary luminary. When she's not transforming lives and inspiring others, Anderson can be found running, biking, or enjoying a steaming cup of coffee while viewing a beautiful sunrise in Mandan, North Dakota, where she resides with her loving husband, Nate, and their adorable goldendoodle, Indigo.]]>2136falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-28-megan-carranza--59164030Episode 28 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Megan Carranza. Megan saw a need in the community and founded Carranza Immigration Law. Carranza Law is a high quality law firm dedicated to United States immigration and nationality law. 

Megan Carranza is an immigration attorney who lives and works in Bismarck. She dedicates her law practice exclusively to United States immigration and nationality law.Megan is a graduate of Mitchell Hamline School of Law and the College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University.In undergraduate school, Megan majored in Spanish, minored in Latino/Latin American Studies, and studied in Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Spain. In 2005, she began working in immigration law as a paralegal. Later, Megan handled immigration-related congressional inquiries for U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp.Last year, Megan founded Carranza Immigration Law to fulfill her dream of providing high-quality immigration legal services in central North Dakota. Part of Megan’s work includes contracting with the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota to provide pro bono legal assistance to asylees, refugees, and immigrants in North Dakota.In her free time, Megan enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and three children.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59164030Mon, 25 Mar 2024 12:55:03 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 28 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Megan Carranza. Megan saw a need in the community and founded Carranza Immigration Law. Carranza Law is a high quality law firm dedicated to United States immigration and nationality law.  Megan...Episode 28 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Megan Carranza. Megan saw a need in the community and founded Carranza Immigration Law. Carranza Law is a high quality law firm dedicated to United States immigration and nationality law. 

Megan Carranza is an immigration attorney who lives and works in Bismarck. She dedicates her law practice exclusively to United States immigration and nationality law.Megan is a graduate of Mitchell Hamline School of Law and the College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University.In undergraduate school, Megan majored in Spanish, minored in Latino/Latin American Studies, and studied in Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Spain. In 2005, she began working in immigration law as a paralegal. Later, Megan handled immigration-related congressional inquiries for U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp.Last year, Megan founded Carranza Immigration Law to fulfill her dream of providing high-quality immigration legal services in central North Dakota. Part of Megan’s work includes contracting with the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota to provide pro bono legal assistance to asylees, refugees, and immigrants in North Dakota.In her free time, Megan enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and three children.]]>1853falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-27-kevin-cavanaugh--59010705https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59010705Tue, 12 Mar 2024 01:44:23 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 27 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Kevin Cavanaugh. Kevin is a business owner who gives back  to our community as well as a teacher focusing on the need for building entrepreneurs. 1889falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-26-dr-jacob-retzer--58842392Episode 26 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Dr. Jacob Retzer. As the owner of Unbound Physical Therapy, Dr.Retzer works with people across the lifespan. His drive to treat the whole person has allowed him to stand out in his profession, and his dedication to giving back is what makes him standout as a changemaker in our community.

Dr. Jacob Retzer is owner of Unbound Physical Therapy. He grew up in the mountains outside of Albuquerque, New Mexico where he enjoyed spending time outside hiking, camping, hunting, biking and snowboarding. When not outside his time was spent training in martial arts and competing at an international level in TaeKwonDo.

After graduating high school he attended the University of New Mexico where heI received his bachelors degree in biology and psychology. Jacob then received his doctorate in physical therapy at the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota.Upon completing his doctorate, Jacob and his family moved to rural Montana where he honed his skills as a therapist working with individuals across the lifespan. He was able to work with outdoor athletes, weekend warriors, crossfitters, gymnasts, highschool athletes, and those who wanted to get back to daily activities without restriction. Being a primary care provider in a rural area helped solidify the importance of treating the whole person including nutrition, sleep, mental health and not just the physical ailments that they are experiencing.

After four years in Montana Jacob decided to move back to Bismarck where he worked in multiple settings before deciding to open his own clinic. This decision came from the desire to provide individuals with the highest level of one on one care helping them to take control of their health. His goal is to help patients alleviate pain, increase performance and assist them in becoming the best version of themselves through increased knowledge in various areas of patient care including strength and conditioning, manual therapy, dry needling and pain science. He enjoys working with clients of all ages and impairments but has a high interest in outdoor athletes, especially archery hunters.When not in the clinic, he enjoys being outdoors with his wife and their two children, camping, hiking and hunting. He also enjoys participating in Crossfit and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58842392Tue, 27 Feb 2024 02:26:01 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 26 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Dr. Jacob Retzer. As the owner of Unbound Physical Therapy, Dr.Retzer works with people across the lifespan. His drive to treat the whole person has allowed him to stand out in his profession, and his...Episode 26 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Dr. Jacob Retzer. As the owner of Unbound Physical Therapy, Dr.Retzer works with people across the lifespan. His drive to treat the whole person has allowed him to stand out in his profession, and his dedication to giving back is what makes him standout as a changemaker in our community.

Dr. Jacob Retzer is owner of Unbound Physical Therapy. He grew up in the mountains outside of Albuquerque, New Mexico where he enjoyed spending time outside hiking, camping, hunting, biking and snowboarding. When not outside his time was spent training in martial arts and competing at an international level in TaeKwonDo.

After graduating high school he attended the University of New Mexico where heI received his bachelors degree in biology and psychology. Jacob then received his doctorate in physical therapy at the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota.Upon completing his doctorate, Jacob and his family moved to rural Montana where he honed his skills as a therapist working with individuals across the lifespan. He was able to work with outdoor athletes, weekend warriors, crossfitters, gymnasts, highschool athletes, and those who wanted to get back to daily activities without restriction. Being a primary care provider in a rural area helped solidify the importance of treating the whole person including nutrition, sleep, mental health and not just the physical ailments that they are experiencing.

After four years in Montana Jacob decided to move back to Bismarck where he worked in multiple settings before deciding to open his own clinic. This decision came from the desire to provide individuals with the highest level of one on one care helping them to take control of their health. His goal is to help patients alleviate pain, increase performance and assist them in becoming the best version of themselves through increased knowledge in various areas of patient care including strength and conditioning, manual therapy, dry needling and pain science. He enjoys working with clients of all ages and impairments but has a high interest in outdoor athletes, especially archery hunters.When not in the clinic, he enjoys being outdoors with his wife and their two children, camping, hiking and hunting. He also enjoys participating in Crossfit and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.]]>1998false26fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-25-sarah-dahl--58656298Episode 25 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Sarah Dahl. Sarah is a change maker in our community due to seeing a need for services and filling that need by starting her own non-profit, Power of Play. Power of Play provides comfort through play for pediatric patients.

Sarah Dahl is the president and founder of Power of Play Foundation whose mission is to provide comfort through play for pediatric patients in Bismarck and Mandan. Sarah (Wehmhoefer) Dahl was born and raised in Bismarck, ND. She attended Northridge Elementary, Hughes Middle School, and Century High School. She studied Biology, Cytotechnology, and Molecular Biology at the University of North Dakota and received her Master of Business Administration from University of Illinois. She worked as a laboratory director, physician educator, and a childrens' hospital project manager for 12 years. With her husband, Dr. Brian Dahl, Sarah is raising her two kids, Graham and Vivia, in Bismarck. Sarah realized the importance of access to toys and items of comfort in the pediatric areas of health care after seeing the profound effects these items made on her daughters' recovery after brain surgery at an out of state hospital in 2017. She began to collect items and place them throughout the healthcare systems in Bismarck. Power of Play Foundation was created in 2019 and currently serves both Bismarck pediatric inpatient units, OR's, emergency departments, and multiple clinics in Bismarck/Mandan. Her goal is to grow the Power of Play Foundation so that all levels of healthcare for pediatric patients are able to foster the best environment of comfort and support possible here in Bismarck/Mandan.In addition to supporting Power of Play's mission, Sarah is a part-time elementary librarian at her kids' school, serves on her church council, is a Sunday school teacher, a Cub Scout leader, Critter Care Companion at the humane society, and tennis player. She is grateful to raise her kids in the wonderful community she grew up in and be witness to the generosity and support of our community over the years.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58656298Mon, 12 Feb 2024 13:36:26 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 25 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Sarah Dahl. Sarah is a change maker in our community due to seeing a need for services and filling that need by starting her own non-profit, Power of Play. Power of Play provides comfort through play...Episode 25 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Sarah Dahl. Sarah is a change maker in our community due to seeing a need for services and filling that need by starting her own non-profit, Power of Play. Power of Play provides comfort through play for pediatric patients.

Sarah Dahl is the president and founder of Power of Play Foundation whose mission is to provide comfort through play for pediatric patients in Bismarck and Mandan. Sarah (Wehmhoefer) Dahl was born and raised in Bismarck, ND. She attended Northridge Elementary, Hughes Middle School, and Century High School. She studied Biology, Cytotechnology, and Molecular Biology at the University of North Dakota and received her Master of Business Administration from University of Illinois. She worked as a laboratory director, physician educator, and a childrens' hospital project manager for 12 years. With her husband, Dr. Brian Dahl, Sarah is raising her two kids, Graham and Vivia, in Bismarck. Sarah realized the importance of access to toys and items of comfort in the pediatric areas of health care after seeing the profound effects these items made on her daughters' recovery after brain surgery at an out of state hospital in 2017. She began to collect items and place them throughout the healthcare systems in Bismarck. Power of Play Foundation was created in 2019 and currently serves both Bismarck pediatric inpatient units, OR's, emergency departments, and multiple clinics in Bismarck/Mandan. Her goal is to grow the Power of Play Foundation so that all levels of healthcare for pediatric patients are able to foster the best environment of comfort and support possible here in Bismarck/Mandan.In addition to supporting Power of Play's mission, Sarah is a part-time elementary librarian at her kids' school, serves on her church council, is a Sunday school teacher, a Cub Scout leader, Critter Care Companion at the humane society, and tennis player. She is grateful to raise her kids in the wonderful community she grew up in and be witness to the generosity and support of our community over the years.]]>1552falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-24-robert-fuller--58489523
Robert Fuller grew up in North Pole, Alaska. After high school, he went to college in Arizona before transferring to the University of Mary. He played football at the University of Mary. He also went on to play in the Indoor Football League for a team in Madison, Wisconsin. He has coached at the high school, college, and Indoor Football League levels. He is an IFL Hall of Fame Inductee. Robert has been competing in powerlifting competitions for 16 years. In 2023, he was the gold medalist for the North American Championship in Puerto Rico. Robert is currently in his tenth year teaching at Wachter Middle School and is also a football coach at Bismarck High School.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58489523Mon, 29 Jan 2024 23:08:44 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 24 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Robert Fuller. As a teacher, coach and professional athlete, Robert makes an impact daily in our community. Robert Fuller grew up in North Pole, Alaska. After high school, he went to college in...
Robert Fuller grew up in North Pole, Alaska. After high school, he went to college in Arizona before transferring to the University of Mary. He played football at the University of Mary. He also went on to play in the Indoor Football League for a team in Madison, Wisconsin. He has coached at the high school, college, and Indoor Football League levels. He is an IFL Hall of Fame Inductee. Robert has been competing in powerlifting competitions for 16 years. In 2023, he was the gold medalist for the North American Championship in Puerto Rico. Robert is currently in his tenth year teaching at Wachter Middle School and is also a football coach at Bismarck High School.]]>2049false24fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-23-zoe-wergeland-manstrom--58315330Episode 23 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Zoe Wergeland Manstrom. As the Executive Director of the American Red Cross of ND, she believes in the power of strong communities and having an impact on those in a time of need.

Zoe the Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Western North Dakota. The Western North Dakota chapter supports communities in the counties of Adams, Billings, Bottineau, Bowman, Burke, Burleigh, Divide, Dunn, Emmons, Golden Valley, Grant, Hettinger, McHenry, McKenzie, McLean, Mercer, Morton, Mountrail, Oliver, Renville, Sheridan, Sioux, Slope, Stark, Ward, Williams; as well as the Mandan, Hidatsa, & Arikara Nation (Three Affiliated Tribes) and the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission.Zoe earned an MBA from the University of North Dakota and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and International Studies from North Dakota State University. Zoe believes in the power of strong communities and enjoys spreading the humanitarian mission of the Red Cross throughout Western ND.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58315330Tue, 16 Jan 2024 01:25:19 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 23 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Zoe Wergeland Manstrom. As the Executive Director of the American Red Cross of ND, she believes in the power of strong communities and having an impact on those in a time of need. Zoe the Executive...Episode 23 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Zoe Wergeland Manstrom. As the Executive Director of the American Red Cross of ND, she believes in the power of strong communities and having an impact on those in a time of need.

Zoe the Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Western North Dakota. The Western North Dakota chapter supports communities in the counties of Adams, Billings, Bottineau, Bowman, Burke, Burleigh, Divide, Dunn, Emmons, Golden Valley, Grant, Hettinger, McHenry, McKenzie, McLean, Mercer, Morton, Mountrail, Oliver, Renville, Sheridan, Sioux, Slope, Stark, Ward, Williams; as well as the Mandan, Hidatsa, & Arikara Nation (Three Affiliated Tribes) and the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission.Zoe earned an MBA from the University of North Dakota and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and International Studies from North Dakota State University. Zoe believes in the power of strong communities and enjoys spreading the humanitarian mission of the Red Cross throughout Western ND.]]>1965bismarck,disasterrelief,diversity,inclusion,redcrossfalse23fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-22-jenny-maattala--58167331
Jenny has a background in English, Marketing, and Communications, working with both publishing houses and nonprofits in their marketing departments. Her love of writing and editing has provided a steady source of freelance opportunities over the last eight years as a stay-at-home mom, taking on clients for proofreading and copyediting services to keep her professional skills from getting too rusty. Jenny earned an MFA in Writing from Queens University of Charlotte, her specialty being writing therapy, and in September 2023 she opened the doors to Soul 57, a nonprofit that provides group therapy to youth who've lost a parent, sibling, or primary caregiver, as well as workshops providing ongoing tools using art, music, writing, and recreation. When she isn't reading, writing, or spending time with the fam, Jenny is teaching cycle class at the Bismarck YMCA or Mandan Family Wellness Facility. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58167331Mon, 01 Jan 2024 20:56:10 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 22 of "These are Your Neighbors" features Jenny Maatala. Jenny is a change maker in our community due to seeing a need for services and filling that need by starting her own non-profit, Soul 57. Soul 57 provides grief support at no cost to...
Jenny has a background in English, Marketing, and Communications, working with both publishing houses and nonprofits in their marketing departments. Her love of writing and editing has provided a steady source of freelance opportunities over the last eight years as a stay-at-home mom, taking on clients for proofreading and copyediting services to keep her professional skills from getting too rusty. Jenny earned an MFA in Writing from Queens University of Charlotte, her specialty being writing therapy, and in September 2023 she opened the doors to Soul 57, a nonprofit that provides group therapy to youth who've lost a parent, sibling, or primary caregiver, as well as workshops providing ongoing tools using art, music, writing, and recreation. When she isn't reading, writing, or spending time with the fam, Jenny is teaching cycle class at the Bismarck YMCA or Mandan Family Wellness Facility. ]]>1948bismarck,diversity,grief,inclusion,nonprofit,northdakotafalse21fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-21-tyler-auck--58052531
Tyler Auck was born and raised in Bismarck, ND. He has a Bachelor’s of Science and is currently an Addiction Counselor on a specialized team. He is a husband, father and most importantly a proud member of the recovery community. Tyler is also the author of Broken Gifts, a memoir of his tumultuous life. He has a passion for helping other people who suffer from the disease of addiction and mental health issues. He strives to help people build strong foundations of hope, survival, strength and recovery. His goal is to show people, using his personal experiences, that full filling your dreams after a life of destruction and pain is possible. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58052531Mon, 18 Dec 2023 22:53:51 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 21 of "These Are Your Neighbors" features Tyler Auck. Tyler was asked to be a guest because of his passion for helping others who suffer from the disease of addiction and mental health issues. Tyler is a changemaker in our community by showing...
Tyler Auck was born and raised in Bismarck, ND. He has a Bachelor’s of Science and is currently an Addiction Counselor on a specialized team. He is a husband, father and most importantly a proud member of the recovery community. Tyler is also the author of Broken Gifts, a memoir of his tumultuous life. He has a passion for helping other people who suffer from the disease of addiction and mental health issues. He strives to help people build strong foundations of hope, survival, strength and recovery. His goal is to show people, using his personal experiences, that full filling your dreams after a life of destruction and pain is possible. ]]>1869accessibility,addiction,bismarck,diversity,equality,equity,inclusion,northdakota,recoveryfalse21fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-20-robyn-myers--57922687
Robyn Myers came to North Dakota in 2016 to care for elderly parents. She grew up in California and then spent 30 years in Florida prior to arriving in Bismarck, The move provided an opportunity to reinvent herself, taking a new direction as she entered into her 60s. She hasn’t paid much attention to age, her attitude being this- one is never too old or too late to begin any adventure. If something piques an interest, explore it!Her younger years, found her living aboard a sailboat, sailing and windsurfing around the San Francisco Bay Area and the Gulf of Mexico. In her 40s, she decided to go back, start and finish college. Her kids were young and with all the obligations that go with raising them, she knew she wouldn’t finish school for some time. That fact was not a deterrent. Ten years later she had a degree in accounting and she CPA designation.

Once in Bismarck, she started a small business, A Blue Speckled Egg, rummaging for discarded furniture, painting and reselling, saving many old unique pieces from the land fill. Her interest in woodworking led to a trip last year to upstate NY and the Hamerston College of Carpentry for Women. One of the best experiences of her life thus far. At loose ends, as she approached her 70s, she was encouraged by family and friends to looking into a modeling agency, Natalie Sparrow Mgmt, out of Fargo, taking another leap of faith, she is now a 60 Plus model with every intention of seeing where this next adventure takes her.

Her message to people, mostly to women of all age is simple. Don't let age define you, don't settle for what is expected of you, have no fear of change and, most of all, always, always take that leap of faith.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57922687Tue, 05 Dec 2023 22:19:09 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 20 of "These Are Your Neighbors" features Robyn Myers. Robyn epitomizes the fact that one is never too old and it is never too late to begin any adventure. By not letting age define her, not settling for what is expected of her and always...
Robyn Myers came to North Dakota in 2016 to care for elderly parents. She grew up in California and then spent 30 years in Florida prior to arriving in Bismarck, The move provided an opportunity to reinvent herself, taking a new direction as she entered into her 60s. She hasn’t paid much attention to age, her attitude being this- one is never too old or too late to begin any adventure. If something piques an interest, explore it!Her younger years, found her living aboard a sailboat, sailing and windsurfing around the San Francisco Bay Area and the Gulf of Mexico. In her 40s, she decided to go back, start and finish college. Her kids were young and with all the obligations that go with raising them, she knew she wouldn’t finish school for some time. That fact was not a deterrent. Ten years later she had a degree in accounting and she CPA designation.

Once in Bismarck, she started a small business, A Blue Speckled Egg, rummaging for discarded furniture, painting and reselling, saving many old unique pieces from the land fill. Her interest in woodworking led to a trip last year to upstate NY and the Hamerston College of Carpentry for Women. One of the best experiences of her life thus far. At loose ends, as she approached her 70s, she was encouraged by family and friends to looking into a modeling agency, Natalie Sparrow Mgmt, out of Fargo, taking another leap of faith, she is now a 60 Plus model with every intention of seeing where this next adventure takes her.

Her message to people, mostly to women of all age is simple. Don't let age define you, don't settle for what is expected of you, have no fear of change and, most of all, always, always take that leap of faith.]]>1949bismarck,diversity,inclusion,model,northdakota,over60false20fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-19-senator-erin-oban--57922678Erin Oban). Erin is a known change maker for the residents of Bismarck. Erin has built a reputation as a champion for public schools and teachers, working families, kids and marginalized North Dakotans.

Erin Oban grew up in a farm family in Ray, North Dakota, a small, rural community in the heart of agriculture and oil country. Oban moved to Bismarck to further her education and received a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education from the University of Mary.Erin’s professional career began as a middle school math and technology teacher and, upon leaving the classroom, gained experience in nonprofit management, politics and government, and regional educational leadership.In 2014, Erin ran as an underdog for and was elected to the North Dakota Senate to represent central Bismarck’s District 35. She was re-elected in 2018. Her leadership in the Senate included service as Assistant Senate Minority Leader and earned recognitions from local and statewide associations as well as selections to national seminars and fellowships.

Throughout her legislative service, Erin built a reputation as a champion for public schools and teachers, working families, kids, and marginalized North Dakotans, for being open and accessible, for valuing relationships and engaging in honest, direct debate and dialogue, and for doing and saying what needs to be done and said, even when it’s hard.

In March 2022, Erin received an appointment from President Joe Biden to continue public service as the state director for USDA Rural Development in North Dakota, a federal agency dedicated to improving the economy and quality of life in rural and Tribal communities. She and her husband, Chad, enjoy traveling, hosting friends and family, and raising their son and favorite little human, Evin.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57922678Tue, 05 Dec 2023 22:17:58 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 19 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Senator Erin Hill-Oban...Erin Oban). Erin is a known change maker for the residents of Bismarck. Erin has built a reputation as a champion for public schools and teachers, working families, kids and marginalized North Dakotans.

Erin Oban grew up in a farm family in Ray, North Dakota, a small, rural community in the heart of agriculture and oil country. Oban moved to Bismarck to further her education and received a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education from the University of Mary.Erin’s professional career began as a middle school math and technology teacher and, upon leaving the classroom, gained experience in nonprofit management, politics and government, and regional educational leadership.In 2014, Erin ran as an underdog for and was elected to the North Dakota Senate to represent central Bismarck’s District 35. She was re-elected in 2018. Her leadership in the Senate included service as Assistant Senate Minority Leader and earned recognitions from local and statewide associations as well as selections to national seminars and fellowships.

Throughout her legislative service, Erin built a reputation as a champion for public schools and teachers, working families, kids, and marginalized North Dakotans, for being open and accessible, for valuing relationships and engaging in honest, direct debate and dialogue, and for doing and saying what needs to be done and said, even when it’s hard.

In March 2022, Erin received an appointment from President Joe Biden to continue public service as the state director for USDA Rural Development in North Dakota, a federal agency dedicated to improving the economy and quality of life in rural and Tribal communities. She and her husband, Chad, enjoy traveling, hosting friends and family, and raising their son and favorite little human, Evin.]]>1865accessibility,bismarck,diversity,inclusion,northdakota,rural,senatorfalse19fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-18-kelsey-zottnick--57922671Tracy's Sanctuary House, a beacon of hope and light for those in need. Kelsey's compassionate heart and drive for making a positive impact make her a change maker in our community.

Kelsey Zottnick is the dedicated and passionate Executive Director of Tracy's Sanctuary House, a role she has embraced for the past seven years. Previously, Kelsey was on the board of directors since it's inception in 2005. With a heart full of compassion and a drive for making a positive impact, Kelsey has led the organization through various challenges and triumphs, ensuring that Tracy's Sanctuary House remains a beacon of hope and support for those in need. Kelsey's love to help people expands to her other job as a Realtor. She loves guiding people and families through the process of buying or selling their home.

Beyond her professional commitments, Kelsey is a wife and loving mother to two wonderful children who inspire her every day. Her love for family extends to her second family – the Tracy's Sanctuary House community.Kelsey's energy and creativity extend beyond her professional realm. She finds joy in sipping a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, conversing with friends, traveling and home remodel projects. She is always following interior design blogs and adding her own spin to her home that her and her husband, Steve, are remodeling.Kelsey's dedication to Tracy's Sanctuary House, real estate, her love for her family, and her appreciation for life's simple pleasures make her truly a wonderful leader and individual.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57922671Tue, 05 Dec 2023 22:17:09 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 18 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Kelsey Zottnick. Kelsey is the Executive Director of...Tracy's Sanctuary House, a beacon of hope and light for those in need. Kelsey's compassionate heart and drive for making a positive impact make her a change maker in our community.

Kelsey Zottnick is the dedicated and passionate Executive Director of Tracy's Sanctuary House, a role she has embraced for the past seven years. Previously, Kelsey was on the board of directors since it's inception in 2005. With a heart full of compassion and a drive for making a positive impact, Kelsey has led the organization through various challenges and triumphs, ensuring that Tracy's Sanctuary House remains a beacon of hope and support for those in need. Kelsey's love to help people expands to her other job as a Realtor. She loves guiding people and families through the process of buying or selling their home.

Beyond her professional commitments, Kelsey is a wife and loving mother to two wonderful children who inspire her every day. Her love for family extends to her second family – the Tracy's Sanctuary House community.Kelsey's energy and creativity extend beyond her professional realm. She finds joy in sipping a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, conversing with friends, traveling and home remodel projects. She is always following interior design blogs and adding her own spin to her home that her and her husband, Steve, are remodeling.Kelsey's dedication to Tracy's Sanctuary House, real estate, her love for her family, and her appreciation for life's simple pleasures make her truly a wonderful leader and individual.]]>1846accessibility,bismarck,diversity,equality,equity,inclusion,nonprofit,northdakotafalse18fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-17-lt-col-daschendorf--57922663North Dakota Army National Guard Recruiting and North Dakota National Guard). Lt. Col. Dashendorf knows the value of a diverse force and in her episode discusses life as a citizen soldier. She was chosen as she is a changemaker because she is an integral part of assisting others to make the decision to serve our country.

Lieutenant Colonel Nicolette K. Daschendorf enlisted in the North Dakota Army National Guard on January 22, 2000 and was assigned to 141 st Engineer Combat Battalion (ECB) in Valley City as a human resource specialist. In 2003, she mobilized and deployed with the unit to Iraq- for Operation Iraqi Freedom 2004 to 2005. Upon returning from deployment, Daschendorf attended Officer Candidate School and graduated in 2007. She was commissioned as a Quartermaster officer and was assigned to Company A, 231st Brigade Support Battalion (BSB) as a platoon leader. Daschendorf has served in a variety of other positions to include company-level executive and operations officer and commanded Company B, 231st BSB and the 231st BSB Logistical Support Element during its overseas deployment (Operation Inherent Resolve/ Operation Enduring Freedom) to Afghanistan 2014 to 2015. She held positions in the North Dakota Army National Guard’s G-3 and 136 th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion staff before assuming command of the North Dakota Army National Guard’s Recruiting and Retention Battalion, Oct. 1, 2021.

Daschendorf’s military education includes Quartermaster basic officer leadership course, Ordnance Captain Career Course, Officer Strength Management Course, a Intermediate Level Education- Advanced Operations Course, and Pre-Command Course. She earned her Bachelor's degree in business management and a Master's degree in project management from the University of Mary.

Her military awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal (5 awards); Joint Commendation Service Medal; Army Commendation Medal (5 awards); Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal; and Iraqi Campaign Medal. She is also authorized the Valorous Unit Award. Daschendorf resides in Bismarck, N.D. with her husband Travis, and 3 boys.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57922663Tue, 05 Dec 2023 22:16:24 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 17 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Lt. Col. Nicollette Daschendorf, Commander of the North Dakota Army National Guard’s Recruiting and Retention Battalion...North Dakota Army National Guard Recruiting and North Dakota National Guard). Lt. Col. Dashendorf knows the value of a diverse force and in her episode discusses life as a citizen soldier. She was chosen as she is a changemaker because she is an integral part of assisting others to make the decision to serve our country.

Lieutenant Colonel Nicolette K. Daschendorf enlisted in the North Dakota Army National Guard on January 22, 2000 and was assigned to 141 st Engineer Combat Battalion (ECB) in Valley City as a human resource specialist. In 2003, she mobilized and deployed with the unit to Iraq- for Operation Iraqi Freedom 2004 to 2005. Upon returning from deployment, Daschendorf attended Officer Candidate School and graduated in 2007. She was commissioned as a Quartermaster officer and was assigned to Company A, 231st Brigade Support Battalion (BSB) as a platoon leader. Daschendorf has served in a variety of other positions to include company-level executive and operations officer and commanded Company B, 231st BSB and the 231st BSB Logistical Support Element during its overseas deployment (Operation Inherent Resolve/ Operation Enduring Freedom) to Afghanistan 2014 to 2015. She held positions in the North Dakota Army National Guard’s G-3 and 136 th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion staff before assuming command of the North Dakota Army National Guard’s Recruiting and Retention Battalion, Oct. 1, 2021.

Daschendorf’s military education includes Quartermaster basic officer leadership course, Ordnance Captain Career Course, Officer Strength Management Course, a Intermediate Level Education- Advanced Operations Course, and Pre-Command Course. She earned her Bachelor's degree in business management and a Master's degree in project management from the University of Mary.

Her military awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal (5 awards); Joint Commendation Service Medal; Army Commendation Medal (5 awards); Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal; and Iraqi Campaign Medal. She is also authorized the Valorous Unit Award. Daschendorf resides in Bismarck, N.D. with her husband Travis, and 3 boys.]]>1760accessibility,bismarck,diversity,equality,equity,inclusion,nationalguard,northdakotafalse17fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-16-lindsey-lauf-peterson--57922660Episode 16 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Lindsey Lauf Peterson. Lindsey is the owner of Radiate Wellness, a business offering personal training as well as group fitness classes. Her ability to make everyone feel welcomed and empowered through fitness is why Lindsey is a changemaker in our community.

Lindsey is the owner of Radiate Wellness which offers group strength training classes, personal training, employee wellness services, and nutrition/wellness coaching. Lindsey graduated from NDSU with a degree in Exercise Science and has been a certified Exercise Physiologist for almost 20 years. She’s been based in Bismarck for the majority of her career, managing various gyms/programs/organizations around town. She’s been personal training and teaching group fitness since the beginning of her career and has always had a passion for helping people.

When she started having kids, she knew she wanted to get out of management and back to working directly with people. She has always had a strong interest in the role psychology and mental health play in health behaviors. This led to pursuing her certification as a Health & Wellness Coach through Well coaches. While she was working as a wellness coach, it became abundantly clear to her how confused people are when it comes to nutrition. So, while pregnant with her third child, she pursued her certification as a Precision Nutrition Level 1 Coach. Also, along the way, she acquired a Pre- & Postnatal Certification through Girls Gone Strong because she was appalled by the lack of information (or, really, misinformation) out there regarding pregnancy and postpartum exercise.

All of these things lead to the birth of Radiate Wellness.Outside of her part-time work with Radiate Wellness, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, listening to audiobooks and podcasts, experimenting in the kitchen and traveling.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57922660Tue, 05 Dec 2023 22:15:17 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 16 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Lindsey Lauf Peterson. Lindsey is the owner of Radiate Wellness, a business offering personal training as well as group fitness classes. Her ability to make everyone feel welcomed and empowered through...Episode 16 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Lindsey Lauf Peterson. Lindsey is the owner of Radiate Wellness, a business offering personal training as well as group fitness classes. Her ability to make everyone feel welcomed and empowered through fitness is why Lindsey is a changemaker in our community.

Lindsey is the owner of Radiate Wellness which offers group strength training classes, personal training, employee wellness services, and nutrition/wellness coaching. Lindsey graduated from NDSU with a degree in Exercise Science and has been a certified Exercise Physiologist for almost 20 years. She’s been based in Bismarck for the majority of her career, managing various gyms/programs/organizations around town. She’s been personal training and teaching group fitness since the beginning of her career and has always had a passion for helping people.

When she started having kids, she knew she wanted to get out of management and back to working directly with people. She has always had a strong interest in the role psychology and mental health play in health behaviors. This led to pursuing her certification as a Health & Wellness Coach through Well coaches. While she was working as a wellness coach, it became abundantly clear to her how confused people are when it comes to nutrition. So, while pregnant with her third child, she pursued her certification as a Precision Nutrition Level 1 Coach. Also, along the way, she acquired a Pre- & Postnatal Certification through Girls Gone Strong because she was appalled by the lack of information (or, really, misinformation) out there regarding pregnancy and postpartum exercise.

All of these things lead to the birth of Radiate Wellness.Outside of her part-time work with Radiate Wellness, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, listening to audiobooks and podcasts, experimenting in the kitchen and traveling.]]>1975bismarck,diversity,fitness,health,inclusion,northdakota,wellnessfalse16fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-15-sashay-schettler--57922655Episode 15 of "These Are Your Neighbors" featuring Sashay Schettler will be playing this week.

Sashay Schettler is a citizen of the MHA Nation, her Hidatsa name is Owl Women. Her parents are Dave and Rhonda Schettler, formerly of Halliday and Twin Buttes but have been residents of Bismarck for over 40 years. Ms. Schettler is the first full time Director of Indigenous Education for Bismarck Public Schools, a monumental moment for Bismarck Public Schools and the state of North Dakota. In her previous role, she served as a Cultural Responsive Coordinator for BPS. Ms. Schettler serves on a variety of community committees and boards, including but not limited to the Bismarck Human Relations Committee, Youthworks Board of Directors and the National Johnson O'Malley Association Board of Directors. Her published scholarly writing focuses on a healthy contemporary construction of Indigenous Identity and Indigenous Education in PreK-12 public school settings. Through her work with her established team, Sashay aims to change the narrative of Indigenous education within public school systems. She aims to close the opportunity gap for Indigenous students and empower them to be leaders within their communities and beyond.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57922655Tue, 05 Dec 2023 22:13:53 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 15 of "These Are Your Neighbors" featuring Sashay Schettler will be playing this week. Sashay Schettler is a citizen of the MHA Nation, her Hidatsa name is Owl Women. Her parents are Dave and Rhonda Schettler, formerly of Halliday and Twin...Episode 15 of "These Are Your Neighbors" featuring Sashay Schettler will be playing this week.

Sashay Schettler is a citizen of the MHA Nation, her Hidatsa name is Owl Women. Her parents are Dave and Rhonda Schettler, formerly of Halliday and Twin Buttes but have been residents of Bismarck for over 40 years. Ms. Schettler is the first full time Director of Indigenous Education for Bismarck Public Schools, a monumental moment for Bismarck Public Schools and the state of North Dakota. In her previous role, she served as a Cultural Responsive Coordinator for BPS. Ms. Schettler serves on a variety of community committees and boards, including but not limited to the Bismarck Human Relations Committee, Youthworks Board of Directors and the National Johnson O'Malley Association Board of Directors. Her published scholarly writing focuses on a healthy contemporary construction of Indigenous Identity and Indigenous Education in PreK-12 public school settings. Through her work with her established team, Sashay aims to change the narrative of Indigenous education within public school systems. She aims to close the opportunity gap for Indigenous students and empower them to be leaders within their communities and beyond.]]>2047accessibility,bismarck,diversity,equality,inclusion,indigenous,nativeamericans,northdakotafalse15fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-14-dr-jason-thoms--57922648Episode 14 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Dr. Jason Thoms. Jason was invited to be a guest because of his work in the field of music. Jason is a professional musician and has been nominated for two Grammys. Jason is the Director of Choral Activities at Bismarck State College as well as the Executive Director of Dakota Pro Musica. Jason is a change-maker in our community because he advocates bringing music to people who are underserved or in marginalized communities. In doing this, people are able to raise their voices in song, and share their stories, cultures, and personal identities.

Dr. Jason Thoms is a fifth-generation professional musician. He is a graduate of St. Olaf College and Michigan State University and holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting. Jason has been a professional conductor for over 25 years. He has conducted ensembles in 49 US States, Canada, Germany and Italy.

Jason has been a professional singer for over 20 years with some of the top professional choral ensembles in the US. Jason has performed as a professional soloist at Carnegie Hall on four occasions. Jason has also been a part of two choral performance groups that have been nominated for a grammy. Jason was one of the featured soloists in one of the choral performances that was nominated. Jason is a published composer. He has written many choral and choral/orchestral compositions for a variety of ensembles. Jason is currently the Director of Choral Activities at Bismarck State College as well as the Executive Director of Dakota Pro Musica. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57922648Tue, 05 Dec 2023 22:12:57 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 14 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Dr. Jason Thoms. Jason was invited to be a guest because of his work in the field of music. Jason is a professional musician and has been nominated for two Grammys. Jason is the Director of Choral...Episode 14 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Dr. Jason Thoms. Jason was invited to be a guest because of his work in the field of music. Jason is a professional musician and has been nominated for two Grammys. Jason is the Director of Choral Activities at Bismarck State College as well as the Executive Director of Dakota Pro Musica. Jason is a change-maker in our community because he advocates bringing music to people who are underserved or in marginalized communities. In doing this, people are able to raise their voices in song, and share their stories, cultures, and personal identities.

Dr. Jason Thoms is a fifth-generation professional musician. He is a graduate of St. Olaf College and Michigan State University and holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting. Jason has been a professional conductor for over 25 years. He has conducted ensembles in 49 US States, Canada, Germany and Italy.

Jason has been a professional singer for over 20 years with some of the top professional choral ensembles in the US. Jason has performed as a professional soloist at Carnegie Hall on four occasions. Jason has also been a part of two choral performance groups that have been nominated for a grammy. Jason was one of the featured soloists in one of the choral performances that was nominated. Jason is a published composer. He has written many choral and choral/orchestral compositions for a variety of ensembles. Jason is currently the Director of Choral Activities at Bismarck State College as well as the Executive Director of Dakota Pro Musica. ]]>1760bismarck,diversity,grammy,inclusion,music,northdakotafalse14fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-13-senator-sean-cleary--57922643Episode 13 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Senator Sean Cleary. Senator Cleary was invited to be a guest on the program because of his work in public service. This work includes being the youngest senator in this legislative session as well as previously working for Senator Hoeven and Governor Burgum. In his first year in the legislature, Senator Cleary became known as a change-maker because of his advocacy efforts specifically in the area of Human Services.

Sean Cleary was elected to the North Dakota State Senate in November 2022, where he serves on the Human Services and State and Local Government Committees. He represents District 35 in the center of Bismarck, where he was born and raised, and now lives with his wife and their daughter. When the Legislature is not in session, Sean works as a grant writer for the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation, an organization dedicated to sharing the beauty of western North Dakota with visitors from throughout the country. He previously served on the staff of North Dakota Senator John Hoeven and Governor Doug Burgum. He is a board member for North Dakota Assistive, an organization that provides assistive technology to people throughout the state.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57922643Tue, 05 Dec 2023 22:11:55 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 13 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Senator...Episode 13 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Senator Sean Cleary. Senator Cleary was invited to be a guest on the program because of his work in public service. This work includes being the youngest senator in this legislative session as well as previously working for Senator Hoeven and Governor Burgum. In his first year in the legislature, Senator Cleary became known as a change-maker because of his advocacy efforts specifically in the area of Human Services.

Sean Cleary was elected to the North Dakota State Senate in November 2022, where he serves on the Human Services and State and Local Government Committees. He represents District 35 in the center of Bismarck, where he was born and raised, and now lives with his wife and their daughter. When the Legislature is not in session, Sean works as a grant writer for the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation, an organization dedicated to sharing the beauty of western North Dakota with visitors from throughout the country. He previously served on the staff of North Dakota Senator John Hoeven and Governor Doug Burgum. He is a board member for North Dakota Assistive, an organization that provides assistive technology to people throughout the state.]]>1922bismarck,diversity,inclusion,northdakota,senatorfalse13fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-12-michelle-erickson--57922636Episode 12 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Michelle Erickson. Michelle was invited to be a guest on the program because of her work helping survivors of domestic assault, human trafficking, dating violence and stalking. Michele is the Executive Director of the Abused Adult Resource Center. The goal of the Abused Adult Resource Center is to help its clients find hope through a life free from abuse. They also work with communities to create an awareness and sensitivity to domestic violence and sexual assault issues by establishing programs that aim to break the cycle of abuse.

Michelle Erickson is the Executive Director of the Abused Adult Resource Center. The Abused Adult Resource Center provides services to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking,dating violence, and stalking. Michelle started her career at the Abused Adult Resource Center as the Transitional Housing Coordinator and then moved into a leadership position supervising the shelters and housing programs and then was hired as Executive Director in April 2019. Michelle developed a passion for helping eliminate homelessness and feels strongly that everyone deserves a safe place to live. Michelle has also been involved with the Missouri Valley Coalition for Homeless People and serves on the board of CAWS (Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault State Coalition). Michelle has a son and daughter in law that live in Bismarck and is the proud Nana of 3 sweet grandkids. She enjoys kayaking, camping, reading and floating on the lake. Her “therapy” is cooking for herself and others, watching true crime documentaries and hanging out with friends and family.

If you or someone you know needs assistance please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text "start" to 88788.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57922636Tue, 05 Dec 2023 22:11:08 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 12 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Michelle Erickson. Michelle was invited to be a guest on the program because of her work helping survivors of domestic assault, human trafficking, dating violence and stalking. Michele is the Executive...Episode 12 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Michelle Erickson. Michelle was invited to be a guest on the program because of her work helping survivors of domestic assault, human trafficking, dating violence and stalking. Michele is the Executive Director of the Abused Adult Resource Center. The goal of the Abused Adult Resource Center is to help its clients find hope through a life free from abuse. They also work with communities to create an awareness and sensitivity to domestic violence and sexual assault issues by establishing programs that aim to break the cycle of abuse.

Michelle Erickson is the Executive Director of the Abused Adult Resource Center. The Abused Adult Resource Center provides services to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking,dating violence, and stalking. Michelle started her career at the Abused Adult Resource Center as the Transitional Housing Coordinator and then moved into a leadership position supervising the shelters and housing programs and then was hired as Executive Director in April 2019. Michelle developed a passion for helping eliminate homelessness and feels strongly that everyone deserves a safe place to live. Michelle has also been involved with the Missouri Valley Coalition for Homeless People and serves on the board of CAWS (Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault State Coalition). Michelle has a son and daughter in law that live in Bismarck and is the proud Nana of 3 sweet grandkids. She enjoys kayaking, camping, reading and floating on the lake. Her “therapy” is cooking for herself and others, watching true crime documentaries and hanging out with friends and family.

If you or someone you know needs assistance please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text "start" to 88788.]]>1789accessibility,bismarck,diversity,domesticviolence,inclusion,northdakotafalse12fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-11-maj-aaron-hummel--57921765Episode 11 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Major Aaron Hummel. Aaron was invited to be a guest on the program because of his efforts with the North Dakota Highway Patrol. Aaron has advocated for change by focusing his efforts to address and reduce the shame and stigma associated with behavioral challenges among the law enforcement community.

Major Aaron Hummel has been with the North Dakota Highway Patrol for over 24 years. Major Hummel received his bachelor’s degree from North Dakota State University and is also a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command.

He has served as a trooper, sergeant, lieutenant, captain and is currently a major where he serves as the North Dakota Highway Patrol’s Chief of Staff. His responsibilities as Chief of Staff include planning, directing, and oversight of staff and activities within the Administrative Services Division, Support Services Division and Finance.

Major Hummel was presented with the Sodbuster Award for Excellence in Growth Mindset by Governor Burgum. He received this award for his efforts to address and reduce shame and stigma associated with behavioral health challenges among the law enforcement community.

Major Hummel is married with two sons. In his free time, he likes to hunt and fish. He is on the Board of Directors for Special Olympics of North Dakota.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57921765Tue, 05 Dec 2023 20:35:52 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 11 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Major Aaron Hummel. Aaron was invited to be a guest on the program because of his efforts with the North Dakota Highway Patrol. Aaron has advocated for change by focusing his efforts to address and...Episode 11 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Major Aaron Hummel. Aaron was invited to be a guest on the program because of his efforts with the North Dakota Highway Patrol. Aaron has advocated for change by focusing his efforts to address and reduce the shame and stigma associated with behavioral challenges among the law enforcement community.

Major Aaron Hummel has been with the North Dakota Highway Patrol for over 24 years. Major Hummel received his bachelor’s degree from North Dakota State University and is also a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command.

He has served as a trooper, sergeant, lieutenant, captain and is currently a major where he serves as the North Dakota Highway Patrol’s Chief of Staff. His responsibilities as Chief of Staff include planning, directing, and oversight of staff and activities within the Administrative Services Division, Support Services Division and Finance.

Major Hummel was presented with the Sodbuster Award for Excellence in Growth Mindset by Governor Burgum. He received this award for his efforts to address and reduce shame and stigma associated with behavioral health challenges among the law enforcement community.

Major Hummel is married with two sons. In his free time, he likes to hunt and fish. He is on the Board of Directors for Special Olympics of North Dakota.
]]>1810bismarck,diversity,highwaypatrol,inclusion,northdakotafalse11fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-10-commissioner-anne-cleary--57921738Episode 10 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Anne Cleary. Anne was invited to be a guest on the program because of her work as a multi-business owner in Bismarck as well as in public service. Anne is extremely passionate about her hometown and has been a changemaker in our community by advocating for small businesses and by making a difference in public service as a City Commissioner.

Anne Cleary, a 3rd generation resident and small business owner, is passionate about her home community. An alumnus of the University of Mary, Cleary has been a small business owner in Bismarck for the last decade. Working first in a business she would come to own, as well as starting new businesses in the community, Cleary is a fierce advocate for small businesses and is a part of a family that believes in public service. Prior to becoming elected to the City Commission in 2022, supporting local businesses and the arts community had led Cleary to become involved in a number of community organizations including: Vice President for the Downtown Business Association of Bismarck Board of Directors, President of Bismarck Arts Bash Board of Directors, and the Bismarck Together 2045 Comprehensive Plan Advisory Board. As city commissioner she carries the portfolio assignments of: Facility Maintenance, Fleet, Forestry, Public Health, Roads & Streets, Solid Waste Utility, Street Lights Utility as well as is the city’s liaison for the Bismarck Public Library and the Missouri Valley Coalition for Homeless people. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57921738Tue, 05 Dec 2023 20:32:18 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 10 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Anne Cleary. Anne was invited to be a guest on the program because of her work as a multi-business owner in Bismarck as well as in public service. Anne is extremely passionate about her hometown and...Episode 10 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Anne Cleary. Anne was invited to be a guest on the program because of her work as a multi-business owner in Bismarck as well as in public service. Anne is extremely passionate about her hometown and has been a changemaker in our community by advocating for small businesses and by making a difference in public service as a City Commissioner.

Anne Cleary, a 3rd generation resident and small business owner, is passionate about her home community. An alumnus of the University of Mary, Cleary has been a small business owner in Bismarck for the last decade. Working first in a business she would come to own, as well as starting new businesses in the community, Cleary is a fierce advocate for small businesses and is a part of a family that believes in public service. Prior to becoming elected to the City Commission in 2022, supporting local businesses and the arts community had led Cleary to become involved in a number of community organizations including: Vice President for the Downtown Business Association of Bismarck Board of Directors, President of Bismarck Arts Bash Board of Directors, and the Bismarck Together 2045 Comprehensive Plan Advisory Board. As city commissioner she carries the portfolio assignments of: Facility Maintenance, Fleet, Forestry, Public Health, Roads & Streets, Solid Waste Utility, Street Lights Utility as well as is the city’s liaison for the Bismarck Public Library and the Missouri Valley Coalition for Homeless people. ]]>1913bismarck,citycommission,diversity,inclusion,northdakota,servicefalse10fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-9-commissioner-nancy-guy--57921709Episode 9 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Nancy Guy. Nancy was invited to be a guest because of her work in public service including being Bismarck City Commissioner for two terms. Nancy has advocated for changes in various levels of local and state government. Nancy has been a changemaker in our community by advocating for Bismarck to go forward with changes to ensure we are a welcoming community to all.

Nancy Guy is grounded in public service. Her father, William Guy, became governor of ND when she was two years old. Nancy was Bismarck City Commissioner from 2014-2022. Nancy has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Nancy was the Operations Director at Community Works North Dakota. Her other work experience includes being a business owner, software developer and an independent insurance agent. Nancy has given back to her community through volunteering. Some of the organizations where she has volunteered include Heaven’s Helpers Soup Café, Ministry on the Margins, and the ND Women’s Network. Nancy believes that Bismarck was a terrific place to grow up and is still a terrific place to live, work and raise a family. Nancy has lived in large metropolitan communities but would trade Bismarck for any of them. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57921709Tue, 05 Dec 2023 20:30:22 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 9 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Nancy Guy. Nancy was invited to be a guest because of her work in public service including being Bismarck City Commissioner for two terms. Nancy has advocated for changes in various levels of local and...Episode 9 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Nancy Guy. Nancy was invited to be a guest because of her work in public service including being Bismarck City Commissioner for two terms. Nancy has advocated for changes in various levels of local and state government. Nancy has been a changemaker in our community by advocating for Bismarck to go forward with changes to ensure we are a welcoming community to all.

Nancy Guy is grounded in public service. Her father, William Guy, became governor of ND when she was two years old. Nancy was Bismarck City Commissioner from 2014-2022. Nancy has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Nancy was the Operations Director at Community Works North Dakota. Her other work experience includes being a business owner, software developer and an independent insurance agent. Nancy has given back to her community through volunteering. Some of the organizations where she has volunteered include Heaven’s Helpers Soup Café, Ministry on the Margins, and the ND Women’s Network. Nancy believes that Bismarck was a terrific place to grow up and is still a terrific place to live, work and raise a family. Nancy has lived in large metropolitan communities but would trade Bismarck for any of them. ]]>1717bismarck,citycommission,diversity,inclusion,northdakotafalse9fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-8-dr-karen-hooge-michalka--57921707Episode 8 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Dr. Karen Hooge Michalka. Dr. Michalka was invited because her studies and teachings focus on the sociology of culture, family, religion, Latino and Latin American studies, immigration, conformity, and deviance. Dr. Michalka is Assistant Professor of Sociology and Program Chair for Social Studies Education at the University of Mary in Bismarck, ND. She also serves as the Vice President of the Board for Bismarck Global Neighbors.

Karen Hooge Michalka, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of sociology at the University ofMary. Her curiosity and interest in the lives of those around her developed through growing up inMunich, ND, attending college outside of Chicago, IL, living for two years in central Mexico,and completing her Ph.D. from the University of Notre Dame. Dr. Michalka has been a fellow ofthe Latino Protestant Congregations Study, funded by Lilly Endowment, and a 2021-2022 publicfellow in the subject of Immigration and Migration Studies for the Public Religion ResearchInstitute (PRRI).

At the University of Mary, she instructs students in the sociological imagination– understanding how our lives are shaped by the social structures and institutions that haveconstituted the world before we were born, and how through our individual and collective actionWe can shape our world for the common good. Her research and writing focus on immigrants and communities of reception, especially as it relates to issues of cultural exchange, religiousinfluences, and community trust.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57921707Tue, 05 Dec 2023 20:29:59 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 8 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Dr. Karen Hooge Michalka. Dr. Michalka was invited because her studies and teachings focus on the sociology of culture, family, religion, Latino and Latin American studies, immigration, conformity, and...Episode 8 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Dr. Karen Hooge Michalka. Dr. Michalka was invited because her studies and teachings focus on the sociology of culture, family, religion, Latino and Latin American studies, immigration, conformity, and deviance. Dr. Michalka is Assistant Professor of Sociology and Program Chair for Social Studies Education at the University of Mary in Bismarck, ND. She also serves as the Vice President of the Board for Bismarck Global Neighbors.

Karen Hooge Michalka, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of sociology at the University ofMary. Her curiosity and interest in the lives of those around her developed through growing up inMunich, ND, attending college outside of Chicago, IL, living for two years in central Mexico,and completing her Ph.D. from the University of Notre Dame. Dr. Michalka has been a fellow ofthe Latino Protestant Congregations Study, funded by Lilly Endowment, and a 2021-2022 publicfellow in the subject of Immigration and Migration Studies for the Public Religion ResearchInstitute (PRRI).

At the University of Mary, she instructs students in the sociological imagination– understanding how our lives are shaped by the social structures and institutions that haveconstituted the world before we were born, and how through our individual and collective actionWe can shape our world for the common good. Her research and writing focus on immigrants and communities of reception, especially as it relates to issues of cultural exchange, religiousinfluences, and community trust.]]>1769bismarck,diversity,equity,inclusion,newamericans,northdakota,refugeesfalse8fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-7-stacy-schaffer--57921706Episode 7 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Stacy Shaffer. Stacy was invited to be a guest because of her work to combat human trafficking. Stacy is the founder and Executive Director of 31:8 project. Their mission is to equip and challenge society to proactively address issues regarding human trafficking through education, survivor mentorship, and bravery backpacks. 31:8 Project educates, advocates and raises awareness in order to prevent human trafficking.

Stacy is the Founder and Executive Director of 31:8 Project. She has based her work in advocacy on the ideal that no one person can do everything, but everyone can do something. Stacy is the coordinator for the Demand Reduction Program and an adjunct professor at the University of Mary. She currently serves as Coordinator for the United States Region on behalf of the Rotarian Action Group Against Slavery, the Rotary District 5580 Human Trafficking Committee Chair, member of the Far West Rotary Club, and board member of the North Dakota Association of Nonprofit Organizations.

She’s a regular contributor to organizations such as the ND Human Trafficking Task Force and Tipi Wakan Ministries. With a passion towards serving others, Stacy has dedicated much of her time advocating for human rights. This pursuit has influenced her education, career, and community work. Stacy graduated with a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Hamline University in St. Paul, MN. Prior, she received her Bachelor's Degree in Social Behavioral Sciences from the University of Mary. In 2011, she was crowned Miss ND International and represented a platform on combating human trafficking. She launched 31:8 Project in 2015 to rally the general public to "speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.”

Stacy was awarded the ND Emerging Leader Award for her work in the non-profit sector and was selected as one of the Bismarck Tribune's “20 Under 40”. Stacy was the 2018 University of Mary's Bell Banner Alumni of the Year, and has been recognized as one of Bismarck's Hidden Hometown Heroes. Stacy often credits her motivation, work ethic, and determination from growing up on a farm near the town of Wishek, ND. Stacy hopes to inspire individuals across the state to join 31:8 Project on the journey to help end modern day slavery, starting right here in North Dakota.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57921706Tue, 05 Dec 2023 20:29:36 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 7 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Stacy Shaffer. Stacy was invited to be a guest because of her work to combat human trafficking. Stacy is the founder and Executive Director of 31:8 project. Their mission is to equip and challenge...Episode 7 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Stacy Shaffer. Stacy was invited to be a guest because of her work to combat human trafficking. Stacy is the founder and Executive Director of 31:8 project. Their mission is to equip and challenge society to proactively address issues regarding human trafficking through education, survivor mentorship, and bravery backpacks. 31:8 Project educates, advocates and raises awareness in order to prevent human trafficking.

Stacy is the Founder and Executive Director of 31:8 Project. She has based her work in advocacy on the ideal that no one person can do everything, but everyone can do something. Stacy is the coordinator for the Demand Reduction Program and an adjunct professor at the University of Mary. She currently serves as Coordinator for the United States Region on behalf of the Rotarian Action Group Against Slavery, the Rotary District 5580 Human Trafficking Committee Chair, member of the Far West Rotary Club, and board member of the North Dakota Association of Nonprofit Organizations.

She’s a regular contributor to organizations such as the ND Human Trafficking Task Force and Tipi Wakan Ministries. With a passion towards serving others, Stacy has dedicated much of her time advocating for human rights. This pursuit has influenced her education, career, and community work. Stacy graduated with a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Hamline University in St. Paul, MN. Prior, she received her Bachelor's Degree in Social Behavioral Sciences from the University of Mary. In 2011, she was crowned Miss ND International and represented a platform on combating human trafficking. She launched 31:8 Project in 2015 to rally the general public to "speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.”

Stacy was awarded the ND Emerging Leader Award for her work in the non-profit sector and was selected as one of the Bismarck Tribune's “20 Under 40”. Stacy was the 2018 University of Mary's Bell Banner Alumni of the Year, and has been recognized as one of Bismarck's Hidden Hometown Heroes. Stacy often credits her motivation, work ethic, and determination from growing up on a farm near the town of Wishek, ND. Stacy hopes to inspire individuals across the state to join 31:8 Project on the journey to help end modern day slavery, starting right here in North Dakota.]]>1701bismarck,diversity,equity,humantrafficking,inclusion,northdakotafalse7fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-6-roxane-romanick--57921701Episode 6 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Roxane Romanick. Roxane was invited to be a guest because of her work in disability advocacy and early intervention services. Roxane has advocated for policy changes at the local, state, and federal level. Roxane is the Executive Director of Designer Genes, which is a non-profit that supports individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and professionals that support them. Roxane has been a changemaker in our community by being a resource to many families working on navigating services for their child with a disability.

While Roxane Romanick has worked the majority of her social work career in the field of developmental disabilities and special education supporting children and families with disabilities, her true education began almost 24 years ago, when she became the mom to her daughter who lives with Down syndrome. She worked in ND’s Early Intervention system as a parent mentor and a consultant to the state Part C Coordinator for 15 years. She served on the State Interagency Coordinating Council as a member, chair, and then staff.  In both her personal and professional capacities, Roxane has had experience with direct parent support, program and policy development, advisory involvement, and advocacy at the local, state, and federal level.  Roxane is currently on the DEC Family Committee and works as the Executive Director for North Dakota’s Down syndrome association, Designer Genes of ND. 
 
Roxane Romanick has been the Executive Director for Designer Genes of North Dakota, Inc., which is a non-profit that supports individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and professionals that support them for the past 7 years.  Prior to that she served as the board president since 2010.  She has a master’s degree in social work from the University of North Dakota and is licensed as a Licensed Certified Social Worker in ND. 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57921701Tue, 05 Dec 2023 20:29:04 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 6 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Roxane Romanick. Roxane was invited to be a guest because of her work in disability advocacy and early intervention services. Roxane has advocated for policy changes at the local, state, and federal...Episode 6 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Roxane Romanick. Roxane was invited to be a guest because of her work in disability advocacy and early intervention services. Roxane has advocated for policy changes at the local, state, and federal level. Roxane is the Executive Director of Designer Genes, which is a non-profit that supports individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and professionals that support them. Roxane has been a changemaker in our community by being a resource to many families working on navigating services for their child with a disability.

While Roxane Romanick has worked the majority of her social work career in the field of developmental disabilities and special education supporting children and families with disabilities, her true education began almost 24 years ago, when she became the mom to her daughter who lives with Down syndrome. She worked in ND’s Early Intervention system as a parent mentor and a consultant to the state Part C Coordinator for 15 years. She served on the State Interagency Coordinating Council as a member, chair, and then staff.  In both her personal and professional capacities, Roxane has had experience with direct parent support, program and policy development, advisory involvement, and advocacy at the local, state, and federal level.  Roxane is currently on the DEC Family Committee and works as the Executive Director for North Dakota’s Down syndrome association, Designer Genes of ND. 
 
Roxane Romanick has been the Executive Director for Designer Genes of North Dakota, Inc., which is a non-profit that supports individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and professionals that support them for the past 7 years.  Prior to that she served as the board president since 2010.  She has a master’s degree in social work from the University of North Dakota and is licensed as a Licensed Certified Social Worker in ND. 
]]>1827accessibility,bismarck,diversity,equality,equity,inclusion,northdakotafalse6fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-5-sister-kathleen-atkinson--57921684Episode 5 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Sister Kathleen Atkinson. Sister Kathleen was invited to be a guest because of her critical work in the community through Ministry on the Margins. She is known in the community for her compassion and empathy and spent time on TAYN reminding us that we must never get into the mindset of considering people “others”. She talks about the misconceptions of being homeless and what we can do to help our neighbors.

Sister Kathleen Atkinson is a Benedictine Sister from the Annunciation Monastery in Bismarck,ND. Nationally recognized as an energetic and creative leader in hunger and homelessnesseducation, she has developed service learning experiences for all age groups and led serviceteams to a variety of foreign and United States locations. Kathleen has been a teacher at theelementary, secondary, university level and has served as director of catechesis for the dioceseof Bismarck. In 2013 she founded Ministry on the Margins, which offers prison ministry, prisonre-entry support, a food pantry, a night time coffee house, support groups, and street outreach.Ministry on the Margins currently serves over 1200 people each week.

A lifetime resident of Bismarck, she is an Elementary Education graduate from University ofMary, Kathleen holds an MA in Theology from St John;s University and a Doctorate in Ministryfrom the University of St Thomas. She is the author of several articles on spirituality and missionas well as two books.

Kathleen currently serves as a member of the Burleigh County Housing Commission, MissouriValley Homeless Coalition, Burleigh-Morton Behavioral Health Coalition, and AID, Inc Board ofDirectors.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57921684Tue, 05 Dec 2023 20:28:40 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 5 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Sister Kathleen Atkinson. Sister Kathleen was invited to be a guest because of her critical work in the community through Ministry on the Margins. She is known in the community for her compassion and...Episode 5 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Sister Kathleen Atkinson. Sister Kathleen was invited to be a guest because of her critical work in the community through Ministry on the Margins. She is known in the community for her compassion and empathy and spent time on TAYN reminding us that we must never get into the mindset of considering people “others”. She talks about the misconceptions of being homeless and what we can do to help our neighbors.

Sister Kathleen Atkinson is a Benedictine Sister from the Annunciation Monastery in Bismarck,ND. Nationally recognized as an energetic and creative leader in hunger and homelessnesseducation, she has developed service learning experiences for all age groups and led serviceteams to a variety of foreign and United States locations. Kathleen has been a teacher at theelementary, secondary, university level and has served as director of catechesis for the dioceseof Bismarck. In 2013 she founded Ministry on the Margins, which offers prison ministry, prisonre-entry support, a food pantry, a night time coffee house, support groups, and street outreach.Ministry on the Margins currently serves over 1200 people each week.

A lifetime resident of Bismarck, she is an Elementary Education graduate from University ofMary, Kathleen holds an MA in Theology from St John;s University and a Doctorate in Ministryfrom the University of St Thomas. She is the author of several articles on spirituality and missionas well as two books.

Kathleen currently serves as a member of the Burleigh County Housing Commission, MissouriValley Homeless Coalition, Burleigh-Morton Behavioral Health Coalition, and AID, Inc Board ofDirectors.]]>1870accessibility,bismarck,diversity,homeless,homelessness,inclusion,ministry,northdakotafalse5fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-4-jason-grueneich--57910223Episode 4 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Jason Grueneich. Jason is a prime example of someone who not only believes he can change the world, but is out there actually doing it. In the episode, he talks about his faith, his work within the HIV community, the LGTBQ community and how he is serving as Chair of the City of Bismarck’s Human Relations Committee.


Jason was born in Bismarck ND and has been a lifelong advocate for the disenfranchised and underrepresented. His faith, love of country & state, & passion for his community has driven him to continually fight for those who's voices are lost or not heard. Jason is the current chair of the Bismarck human relations committee, helped develop the North Dakota HIV peer navigation program, sit on the North Dakota HIV planning and care Advisory Board, and was a 2022 champion of capital pride award winner for his extensive work and efforts on behalf of the LGBTQIA 2S plus communities of North Dakota. Jason is also active in the recovery communities in North Dakota and helped start the first LGBTQ recovery meeting in central North Dakota.Jason has been an active supporter of not only the LGBTQ community, but also an advocate for new Americans in North Dakota, indigenous representation in our communities, a supporter and promoter of the doctor Martin Luther King junior celebration, women's rights, union representation, and our house less populations. He believes if we don't stick together as a community and lift each other up we are doing each other a disservice. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57910223Mon, 04 Dec 2023 20:32:00 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 4 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Jason Grueneich. Jason is a prime example of someone who not only believes he can change the world, but is out there actually doing it. In the episode, he talks about his faith, his work within the HIV...Episode 4 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Jason Grueneich. Jason is a prime example of someone who not only believes he can change the world, but is out there actually doing it. In the episode, he talks about his faith, his work within the HIV community, the LGTBQ community and how he is serving as Chair of the City of Bismarck’s Human Relations Committee.


Jason was born in Bismarck ND and has been a lifelong advocate for the disenfranchised and underrepresented. His faith, love of country & state, & passion for his community has driven him to continually fight for those who's voices are lost or not heard. Jason is the current chair of the Bismarck human relations committee, helped develop the North Dakota HIV peer navigation program, sit on the North Dakota HIV planning and care Advisory Board, and was a 2022 champion of capital pride award winner for his extensive work and efforts on behalf of the LGBTQIA 2S plus communities of North Dakota. Jason is also active in the recovery communities in North Dakota and helped start the first LGBTQ recovery meeting in central North Dakota.Jason has been an active supporter of not only the LGBTQ community, but also an advocate for new Americans in North Dakota, indigenous representation in our communities, a supporter and promoter of the doctor Martin Luther King junior celebration, women's rights, union representation, and our house less populations. He believes if we don't stick together as a community and lift each other up we are doing each other a disservice. ]]>1930accessibility,bismarck,diversity,inclusion,northdakotafalse4fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-3-megan-mann--57910202Episode 3 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Megan Mann. Megan struggled with substance use from the time she was 14 until the age of 31, when she entered Hope Manor, a sober living home. At Hope Manor, she attained the structure, stability and support she needed to fight to save her life.

Since then, Megan has been in the front row seat to many miracles and tragedies because of addiction. Megan has continued to support Hope Manor by volunteering and then eventually gaining employment through them. She is currently the Executive Director of Hope Manor and has chosen to pay it forward to the next individual for the life-changing treatment she received that helped her gain her life back.



Megan was born and raised in Dickinson. After graduating high school, she attended North Dakota State University, where she earned a BS in psychology and a MS in clinical psychology. At the age of 29 her parents took her in as she was unable to provide for herself and her disease was progressing. For 2 years she resided with her parents as they watched her deteriorate from a once promising individual into someone who was hardly recognizable, suffering from a hopeless state of mind and body. Megan entered She entered Hope Manor on 2014 and was blown away by the love she received from women she hadnever met. Hope Manor held her in a safe and sober environment while she began to heal. Megan has held a number of roles at Hope Manor. In October of 2022 she was hired as the Director. Hope Manor has never asked her to pay back what was given to her, but instead to pay it forward to the next suffering individual. Her goal today is to give hope to the hopeless.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57910202Mon, 04 Dec 2023 20:29:14 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeEpisode 3 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Megan Mann. Megan struggled with substance use from the time she was 14 until the age of 31, when she entered Hope Manor, a sober living home. At Hope Manor, she attained the structure, stability and...Episode 3 of “These Are Your Neighbors” features Megan Mann. Megan struggled with substance use from the time she was 14 until the age of 31, when she entered Hope Manor, a sober living home. At Hope Manor, she attained the structure, stability and support she needed to fight to save her life.

Since then, Megan has been in the front row seat to many miracles and tragedies because of addiction. Megan has continued to support Hope Manor by volunteering and then eventually gaining employment through them. She is currently the Executive Director of Hope Manor and has chosen to pay it forward to the next individual for the life-changing treatment she received that helped her gain her life back.



Megan was born and raised in Dickinson. After graduating high school, she attended North Dakota State University, where she earned a BS in psychology and a MS in clinical psychology. At the age of 29 her parents took her in as she was unable to provide for herself and her disease was progressing. For 2 years she resided with her parents as they watched her deteriorate from a once promising individual into someone who was hardly recognizable, suffering from a hopeless state of mind and body. Megan entered She entered Hope Manor on 2014 and was blown away by the love she received from women she hadnever met. Hope Manor held her in a safe and sober environment while she began to heal. Megan has held a number of roles at Hope Manor. In October of 2022 she was hired as the Director. Hope Manor has never asked her to pay back what was given to her, but instead to pay it forward to the next suffering individual. Her goal today is to give hope to the hopeless.]]>1927bismarck,diversity,inclusion,northdakota,recoveryfalse3fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-2-jasmine-tosseth-smith--57909902Jasmine Tosseth-Smith is featured in Episode 2 of “These Are Your Neighbors”, appearing on 102.5 FM Radio Access at 7 AM on Tuesdays and 10 AM on Saturdays. Jasmine was born and raised in Zimbabwe but has called North Dakota home since April of 2006. Jasmine is passionate about food, community and empowerment. As a resident of North Dakota for over 15 years, Jasmine is wholeheartedly committed to see new Americans and North Dakotans come together, embrace their diversity and together grow North Dakota.

Jasmine was born and raised in Zimbabwe but has called North Dakota home since April of 2006. Jasmine is passionate about food, community and empowerment. As a resident of North Dakota for over 15 years, Jasmine is wholeheartedly committed to see new Americans and North Dakotans come together, embrace their diversity and together grow North Dakota. As an entrepreneur herself, with a catering, graphic design and crafting business, Jasmine is a champion for economic opportunity and development. Jasmine is a single mom with 3 amazing kids, 2 grandkids and recently adopted two kittens named Char and Coley. She loves bright colors, loves to dance and hopes that her joy and exuberance is contagious.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57909902Mon, 04 Dec 2023 20:07:13 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeJasmine Tosseth-Smith is featured in Episode 2 of “These Are Your Neighbors”, appearing on 102.5 FM Radio Access at 7 AM on Tuesdays and 10 AM on Saturdays. Jasmine was born and raised in Zimbabwe but has called North Dakota home since April of 2006....Jasmine Tosseth-Smith is featured in Episode 2 of “These Are Your Neighbors”, appearing on 102.5 FM Radio Access at 7 AM on Tuesdays and 10 AM on Saturdays. Jasmine was born and raised in Zimbabwe but has called North Dakota home since April of 2006. Jasmine is passionate about food, community and empowerment. As a resident of North Dakota for over 15 years, Jasmine is wholeheartedly committed to see new Americans and North Dakotans come together, embrace their diversity and together grow North Dakota.

Jasmine was born and raised in Zimbabwe but has called North Dakota home since April of 2006. Jasmine is passionate about food, community and empowerment. As a resident of North Dakota for over 15 years, Jasmine is wholeheartedly committed to see new Americans and North Dakotans come together, embrace their diversity and together grow North Dakota. As an entrepreneur herself, with a catering, graphic design and crafting business, Jasmine is a champion for economic opportunity and development. Jasmine is a single mom with 3 amazing kids, 2 grandkids and recently adopted two kittens named Char and Coley. She loves bright colors, loves to dance and hopes that her joy and exuberance is contagious.]]>1664bismarck,diversity,inclusion,newamericans,northdakotafalse2fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-1-bill-patrie--57909886The first-ever episode of "These Are Your Neighbors" on Radio Access (102.5 FM). This podcast, hosted by Thea Jorgensen and Sargianna Wutzke, features Bill Patrie in its pilot episode.


Bill is a retired economic and cooperative developer holding various positions . He holds a Master's in Public Administration and a Bachelor’s in Political Science with a minor in religion. Bill is the author of Creating Co-op Fever published by USDA, and 100 Stories of Hope, a book recounting his interviews with 100 people in poverty. 
 
He has served for the past 12 years as the chair of the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Commission.  Bill and his wife Marcia have three adult children, three grandchildren and live in Bismarck.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57909886Mon, 04 Dec 2023 19:52:40 +0000Bismarck Human Relations CommitteeThe first-ever episode of "These Are Your Neighbors" on Radio Access (102.5 FM). This podcast, hosted by Thea Jorgensen and Sargianna Wutzke, features Bill Patrie in its pilot episode. Bill is a retired economic and cooperative developer holding...The first-ever episode of "These Are Your Neighbors" on Radio Access (102.5 FM). This podcast, hosted by Thea Jorgensen and Sargianna Wutzke, features Bill Patrie in its pilot episode.


Bill is a retired economic and cooperative developer holding various positions . He holds a Master's in Public Administration and a Bachelor’s in Political Science with a minor in religion. Bill is the author of Creating Co-op Fever published by USDA, and 100 Stories of Hope, a book recounting his interviews with 100 people in poverty. 
 
He has served for the past 12 years as the chair of the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Commission.  Bill and his wife Marcia have three adult children, three grandchildren and live in Bismarck.
]]>1691bismarck,diversity,equality,inclusion,northdakotafalse1full