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The Vault at 201 N Broadway is the official business podcast of Big Sky Economic Development in Billings, Montana's City! We interview community leaders, small business owners, entrepreneurs, and resource partners here in Montana to share their stories, expertise, industry insights, and strategies. Learn how to better start, manage, and grow your business and your leadership. Tangible takeaways to save you time and improve whatever it is that you’re working on.
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In this Vault short, KaVo & Marce B are back with a follow-up episode all about the newest tools available on BetterOffinBillings.org. These resources were built with employers and newcomers in mind—and they’re designed to help elevate Billings’ talent attraction and retention strategy. They walk through three key additions to the site: the Cost of…
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Join us as we sit down with Patrick Daley—businessman, Army veteran, and son of former Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley—for a wide-ranging conversation on life, discipline, and business. Patrick shares his journey from growing up in Chicago and attending an all-boys Catholic school, to enlisting in the Army’s airborne infantry and working in investme…
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Join us as we sit down with Lazy K Bar Whiskey’s Britt West, Partner, and Casey Mitchell, Head of Sales and Marketing—the team behind a bourbon crafted to honor Montana’s legacy and values. In this episode, they share their personal stories—what inspired them to create Lazy K Bar Whiskey, how the founding team came together, and the importance of h…
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In this episode, we sit down with personal trainer Ryan Jore to explore the connection between physical strength, personal growth, and building a supportive community. With over a decade of experience at Granite Health and Fitness, Ryan shares how he found his passion for helping women reach their fitness goals—and how creating the right environmen…
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In this episode, we sit down with Alana Sukut, the owner and founder of Casual Space in Billings — a one-woman business that’s redefining what it means to build community through place. Alana shares how her vision for Casual Space was shaped by a desire to make connecting easier and more natural, especially in a time when meaningful interaction can…
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In this episode, we dive into the story behind Triia, a powerful initiative from the Native American Development Corporation (NADC) that’s elevating Native voices through art. Our guests, Tally Monteau and Maddison Wilhite, share how Triia is creating a space for Native artists to share their work, connect with a broader audience, and grow as entre…
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In this episode we sit down with Dianne Parker - she shares her journey from farm life in Wyoming to the fast-paced world of broadcast journalism. She reflects on the lessons learned growing up in a hardworking, agricultural and entrepreneurial family. She dives into her early days producing weekend news in Billings and the career journey she has h…
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Join us as we sit down with Andrew Newman, founder of Newman Restoration & Cleaning and proud community advocate. Andrew shares his journey from growing up in a family-run restoration business in Sheridan, Wyoming, to becoming a leader in the Billings business community. Inspired by hands-on experience and a strong work ethic, Andrew talks about wh…
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In this episode, we sit down with Maddison Wilhite and Tally Monteau from the Native American Development Corporation (NADC) to explore how this organization is driving economic growth, wellness, and opportunity across Native communities in Montana, Wyoming, and the Dakotas. Maddison shares how NADC’s holistic and culturally rooted approach support…
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Join us as we sit down with Steve Arveschoug, Executive Director of Big Sky Economic Development, for his final Vault podcast episode before retirement, as he reflects on 16½ years of leadership and impact. From launching major initiatives like BillingsWorks to founding Rock31, helping bring RVU – Montana College of Osteopathic Medicine to Billings…
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Join us today as we sit down with Nichole Mehling, President of the Billings Clinic Foundation to share her journey from music teacher to community leader. Inspired by her grandmother to find her voice and shine her light, Nichole talks about growing up in a service-minded family, her early career in education and hospitality, and the natural path …
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Join us as we sit down with Rebecca and Jamie, the dynamic duo behind The OCD Girls—Billings' premier organizing team. With diverse backgrounds—Rebecca in professional writing and Jamie in real estate—they turned their passion for organization into a thriving business that helps others reclaim their spaces and their peace of mind. In this episode, …
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Join us as we sit down with Nick Steen Gullings, Head Chef and Owner of Walkers, to explore his journey of discovering passion and purpose. From influential mentors to unexpected career detours—including firefighting, selling Kirby vacuums, and a legendary moment when he quit and rode away on a Harley—Nick shares the pivotal experiences that led hi…
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Join us as we sit down with Mike Nelson—community leader, business owner, developer, and hospitality expert—who revitalized the iconic Northern Hotel and helped shape downtown Billings. Mike shares his career journey, from working for major hotel brands in Las Vegas to returning home to Billings to restore the Northern. He dives into his three legs…
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Join us as we sit down with entrepreneur, nurse, and owner of SOMETHINGchic, Linda Brooks. Linda shares her journey from small-town Montana to nursing school, life in Boston, and ultimately returning home to bring her dream to life. She dives into the long road to opening her store, from co-winning the Downtown Billings Battle of the Plans to crowd…
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Join us as we sit down with Jodi Mackay owner of Molly & Friends, a beloved dog daycare and boarding business in Laurel, MT. Jodi shares how a simple idea turned into a thriving small business, the importance of communication and customer service, and the special touches that make Molly & Friends a home away from home for dogs. Plus, a special appe…
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Join us as we sit down with Cindy Beers - dietitian, entrepreneur, health advocate and Founder of Fresco Juice. Cindy shares her journey, from working in healthcare to launching her own business, driven by her personal gut health struggles and a transformative discovery of raw juice. She shares how the encouragement from her community gave her the …
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Join us as we sit down with Andrew McDonald, President of the Billings Catholic Schools. From dreaming of a career as a spy to finding his calling in education Andrew shares his career journey and leadership insights. On this episode he discusses the importance of transparency, knowing your strengths and building strong teams. We dive into the powe…
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Join us as we sit down with Katie Meier, the State Director of Montana HOSA, future health professionals of Montana. On this episode we talk about the role HOSA plays across the state to empower future leaders (high school students) through education, collaboration and experience. She dives into her passion for educating students and leveraging HOS…
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We are honored to start season 3 of The Vault, episode 79 with a very special episode featuring a special guest who is no longer with us. This episode was recorded in August of 2024 and our special guest, Kevin Kooistra passed away in December 2024. We are honored to have had this conversation with him and to share it with you. We hope that you are…
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On this vault short our hosts are solo to recap The Vault’s season 2 (Feb. 2024 - Jan. 2025). KaVo & Marce B dive into the key themes they heard from season 2 such as leadership, resources to launch a business, branding, listening to your customers, gratitude, and customer service. They share the episodes where these themes were most prominent, and…
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Join us as we sit down with the Senior Vice President of Talent Attraction at Development Counsellors International, Patience Fairbrother to discuss attracting and retaining talent in your communities. On this episode, Patience dives into why talent moves, what factors matter to talent when looking to move or stay in a place, and what we can do to …
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On this Vault short we sit down with Program Manager, Veterans Navigation Network, Senior Master Sergeant (retired), USAF, County Veteran Service Officer (retired), Mike McManus to talk about the services VNN provides to facilitate a smooth transition for our Nation’s Service Members from military service to civilian life. In this episode, Mike tal…
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Join us as we sit down with Amanda Jungles, Regional Director of Business Development for Cushing Terrell. Amanda shares her journey from boarding school to following her family’s footsteps at Florida State University, a family tradition dating back to 1933. In this episode Amanda talks about the importance of research & how it sparked her interest…
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On this Vault short we interview Big Sky Economic Development team members, Rick & Justin to learn more about their program, Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC). We talk with them about the types of services the VBOC offers, from business planning and mentorship to navigating funding options and government contracting opportunities. We dive in…
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In this episode, we sit down with Akvilina Rieger; community builder, connector, and cultural ambassador, to explore her inspiring journey of leadership and engagement. From studying International Business in Lithuania to earning a scholarship at Montana State University and building a life in Billings, Akvilina’s story is one of curiosity, connect…
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Join us as we sit down with Karen Grosz - entrepreneur, team builder, speaker, and author to discuss the art of facilitation. Karen dives into the importance of facilitation done well, embracing your role as a facilitator, and knowing what you are trying to create. In this episode, we dive into how to set your day up for success by focusing on your…
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In this episode, we sit down with Riza Gilpin—entrepreneur, inventor, and tea enthusiast—to explore her incredible journey of innovation and reinvention. From building a successful career in dental sales in Florida to inventing the groundbreaking “Kitty’s WonderBox” and selling it to a national pet company, Riza’s story is one of curiosity, vision,…
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On today’s Vault Short our hosts, KaVo & Marce B are talking all about business entities. We delve into the different types of business entities and the structural difference of each business entity type. If you are thinking about starting or growing your business, Big Sky Economic Development has free business advising and lending services to help…
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In today’s episode, we chat with Kaitlyn Bolotas, owner of House of Colour West Billings, about the transformative power of color analysis. Kaitlyn shares the history behind this innovative approach, her journey to introducing it in the Billings area, and how discovering your best colors can boost your confidence. We explore how understanding your …
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On this Vault Short, we sit down with James Easton, Montana Chamber Foundation Workforce Specialist to talk about the programs they lead to encourage entrepreneurship among Montana’s K-12 and undergraduate students and administer funds that support workforce readiness and entrepreneurship programs in the Big Sky State. On this episode we dive into …
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On our latest episode we sit down with our fellow Big Sky Economic Development team member, Rick Brown - an Air Force Veteran, former member of the secret service, entrepreneur, degree in law, and a PhD in Psychology. On this episode he dives into transformative projects he spearheaded, the partnerships he forged to tackle complex social issues, an…
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On this Vault Short, we sit down with Candace Carr Strauss, VP of Marketing & Communications with the Montana Chamber of Commerce to talk about driving Montana forward through their work to create business opportunities for growth and prosperity across the state. We talk with Candace about the Chamber’s extensive network, which includes businesses …
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On our latest episode we sit down with husband and wife duo, Jason and Jen Marble, creators and owners of Marble Table and Marble Coffee. We talk with them about their inspiring journey to opening and creating Marble Table and their recent expansion, Marble Coffee. They share how they’ve crafted a menu that feels like family and created a dining ex…
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On this Vault short we talk with Anastasia with Mountain Sass Creative. We discuss the benefits of virtual executive assistant services, virtual assistant mentorship, and content creation in your business. Anastasia dives into the tools and resources she utilizes to stay organized and efficient in her work and how those tools can help entrepreneurs…
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Today, we are sitting down with Jon Wanderaas, Founder of Alaskan Seafood Guys, to hear about his journey from fishing in Alaska to building a thriving seafood business in Montana. Jon talks about what it was like growing up in Alaska, being part of commercial fishing crews, working on tenders, and managing a Cannery in Alaska before coming back to…
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On this Vault Short we sit down with Allison Corbyn, the Executive Director of the Montana Economic Developers Association (MEDA) to talk about strengthening Montana’s community and economic development through education, advocacy, and collaboration. We talk with Allison about MEDA’s membership, which is made up of economic developers, small busine…
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Today we are sitting down with Katy Schreiner and Mehmet Casey with Downtown Billings for a conversation about the Downtown Billings Association. Downtown Billings houses multiple non-profit organizations (Downtown Billings Association, Business Improvement District, Downtown Billings Partnership and Community Innovations and Spare Change for Real …
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On this Vault short we sat down with Kristi and Kristy with Billings TrailNet. We talk with Kristi and Kristy about the creation of Billings Trailnet, its evolution in the community, how TrailNet is structured, volunteer opportunities, and so much more. We dive into their past projects, strategic plan, and their plans for the future. We discuss the…
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In our latest episode we sat down with Owner and Founder of Bumps ‘n Bundles, Becky Salyer. We talk about buying a local children’s store, rebranding it and building the brand we know today, Bumps ‘n Bundles. We talk about what it’s like owning a retail store, sourcing brands, going to market, and the importance of knowing your customers and relati…
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On today’s Vault short we are sitting down with Founder and Owner of the Entrepreneurship Collective to talk about the importance of building a strong foundation for your business to build on. Jennifer has a background in law, she is a Kolbe Certified Consultant, Executive Coach and has years of experience working with entrepreneurs and businesses.…
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On today’s episode we’re sitting down with Jodie Adams, a national leader in tennis and parks and recreation. She has worked tirelessly over her career to ensure that community tennis and the opportunity to connect and play is accessible for all. On this episode we discuss the organizations she has worked with over her career, the work she has done…
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On today’s Vault short we talk about the importance of a business plan and the steps to build one. We discuss how a business plan is like a roadmap to your business. We delve into the details of a business plan, what it should include and tips for outlining and creating the plan. On this episode we talk about the role of financial projections and t…
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Today we’re sitting down with Paul Green, Navy Veteran, Rancher, and Director of the Montana Department of Commerce. We discuss Paul’s journey to Montana, originally coming to the state as a laborer over 26 years ago to his present role as the Director of Commerce. We discuss Paul’s passion for people, developing genuine relationships with those he…
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On today’s Vault short we are joined by Shannon Hahn from the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) to discuss MDT’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Small Business Enterprise (SBE) programs. We dive into each program, the criteria for qualifying and how these programs help businesses tackle State and Local contracts with MDT. Join …
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Today we are sitting down with Dan Hargrove, United States Air Force Veteran and former Commander of Air Force Two. In this episode we discuss his time at the Air Force Academy, what it was like being an Air Force pilot instructor flying and teaching in a T38 high performance trainer airplane, his time flying daily missions as a military cargo pilo…
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Why is it that when change occurs, some people respond while others react? On today’s short our hosts dive into what it means to “respond” vs “react” in changing situations, personally and professionally. We dive into examples of what it looks like in situations when someone responds and when they react. Our hosts delve into the deliberate patterns…
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Today we’re sitting down with Dusty Eaton, CEO of A&E Design to talk about leadership, organizational culture, and the power of innovative design. We have an in-depth conversation about the impactful experiences A&E creates through their innovative approach to architecture, design, and branding. We discuss the importance of setting the tone as a le…
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On today’s episode we are bringing Wade back to The Vault to talk about all things podcasting. Wade is the owner of Lamplighter Creative and works closely with our hosts KaVo and Marce B on editing each Vault episode! He provides ongoing creative direction and insight to The Vault Podcast. On today’s Vault short we talk with Wade about podcasting. …
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Today we are sitting down with Abby Reno with City Vineyard for a conversation about transformational customer service, hiring for personality, training for skill sets, and brand evolution. We discuss the evolution of City Vineyard, working in a family business, where she gets her inspiration to evolve the business, and how City Vineyard approaches…
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