Lander Biz

Charene Herrera and Owen Sweeney

Fremont Biz is your go-to podcast for discovering the backbone of our vibrant Fremont County community—our local businesses. Co-hosted by Charene Herrera from County 10 and Owen Sweeney from the Lander Chamber of Commerce and this show highlights the unique character, fun facts, services, and stories behind the businesses that make Fremont County thrive. Join us as we delve into the heart of our community, showcasing the innovation, passion, and dedication that drive our local economy. Tune in to learn, be inspired, and support the incredible businesses that shape our everyday lives in Fremont County.

  1. May 29

    More Than Concrete: Croell’s Growth, Jobs, and Community Impact in Fremont County

    On this episode of Lander Biz, we take a closer look at the company helping build the foundations, roads, and projects that keep the Wind River Region moving. Mike Bargas with Croell Incorporated joins the show to talk about the family-owned company’s history, its growth in Wyoming, and the essential work Croell does in aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and paving. In Wyoming, the company continues to expand its footprint while staying connected to the communities it serves. Mike explains Croell’s work in the Wind River Region, including operations in Lander, Riverton, and Dubois, and shares how the company supports local construction needs while navigating rising costs in cement, fuel, and materials. This episode also highlights Croell’s local workforce and current hiring needs. Croell is looking for mixer drivers and aggregate drivers in Lander, Riverton, and Dubois. Mike talks about wages, benefits, 401(k) match, insurance, Teladoc, employee support programs, and the company’s safety incentives designed to keep crews protected and appreciated. And this episode goes beyond the studio. We take a small field trip around parts of the working plant, where Mike gives us a look at the concrete batch plant and explains how mixes are precisely weighed, loaded, and delivered. It is a behind-the-scenes look at the process most of us drive by every day but rarely get to see up close. From roadways and foundations to jobs and community partnerships, Croell Incorporated plays a big role in the infrastructure and growth of Fremont County. Listen to this episode of Lander Biz to hear how the people behind the plant are helping shape the region, one load at a time.

    31 min
  2. Feb 17

    Chief Kelly Waugh on Leadership, Active Shooter Preparedness Event & Lander’s Future

    In this episode of Fremont Biz we visit the Lander Police Department to sit down with Chief Kelly Waugh for an in-depth conversation about leadership, preparedness, and the future of public safety in Lander. Chief Waugh reflects on the department’s progress following a major local incident and discusses his first year serving as interim chief while simultaneously covering captain and administrative duties. Now officially in the permanent chief role, Waugh shares his commitment to long-term planning, building community trust, and strengthening relationships with local businesses and residents. A key focus of the conversation is active shooter preparedness and emergency planning. Meghan from the Lander Chamber of Commerce joins the discussion to highlight the upcoming Lunch and Learn on February 27 from 12:00–1:00 PM at The Inn at Lander Restaurant. The free event is open to the entire community and will feature Lander officers providing an overview of active shooter preparedness and practical safety steps. Lunch is included, and registration is available at landerchamber.org. The episode also highlights initiatives supporting officer mental health. Waugh shares how the department partners with outside organizations and uses tracking software to ensure post-incident check-ins happen consistently. He believes officer wellness is critical to serving the community effectively. Looking ahead, Waugh announces plans for Lander’s first Citizens Police Academy. The six-week program will provide weekly sessions designed to increase transparency and give residents a better understanding of what police work actually entails. Waugh also opens up about his Wyoming roots and what motivated him to pursue a career in law enforcement.

    23 min
  3. Jan 8

    From Blueprint to Reality: CMBC Building & Restoration and a Client’s Housing Success Story

    This episode of Fremont Biz takes listeners on location with CMBC Building and Restoration, a family-run construction company rooted in Fremont County. Joining the conversation are Andrew and Curt from CMBC, along with their client, Leslie Calkins, who shares firsthand insight into what it’s like to work with a trusted general contractor on a major housing project. The episode was recorded at one of CMBC’s active locations, adding real-world context to the discussion and giving listeners an authentic behind-the-scenes look at how projects come together. Andrew walks through his wide-ranging role within the company, spanning operations, sales, estimating, and design, while Curt expands on CMBC’s family dynamic and the systems that help keep projects running smoothly. Leslie offers a client’s perspective on the construction of her triplex housing project, highlighting CMBC’s organization, communication, and ability to manage the process efficiently from start to finish. The conversation also dives into why hiring a general contractor matters, especially in today’s high-demand housing market, particularly as Fremont County continues to see increased need for quality housing solutions. This episode showcases CMBC’s commitment to craftsmanship, client satisfaction, and long-term relationships, while also touching on upcoming projects and the evolving direction of the business. It’s a practical, grounded discussion that blends construction insight with real client experience...perfect for anyone interested in building, development, or the business side of growth in Fremont County.

    14 min
  4. 12/30/2025

    Roasting Beans in Real Time: Brown Sugar Coffee Roastery

    Fremont Biz is brewing up something special this week. In this episode, we sit down with Amanda Henry, owner of Brown Sugar Coffee Roastery, to talk about what really goes into roasting coffee and what it takes to build a coffee business with big standards in a small community. Amanda walks us through the coffee roasting process, breaking it down in a way that makes you appreciate every bag a little more. But what really sets Brown Sugar apart is their commitment to wellness-focused coffee through what Amanda calls the “Sip Clean Campaign.” The goal? Coffee that’s no toxin, mold-free, and low-acidity—a cleaner cup for people who care about what they’re putting in their bodies (or who’ve felt the difference a “cleaner” roast can make). And if you didn’t know Brown Sugar expanded into more food options, this episode covers that too. Amanda explains their ghost kitchen concept, created to broaden their offerings, add flexibility, and even create more hours for staff. If you’re looking for an easy bite... burgers and fries! You’ll want to check out their ghost kitchen: The Alley Burgers here: https://thealleyburgers.com/ We wrap with a conversation that matters: Amanda shares what it’s like being a woman in a male-dominated industry, and why she’s passionate about supporting women-owned coffee farms whenever possible. If you love coffee, care about wellness, or just appreciate a local business story with grit and heart—this one’s for you. Learn more about Brown Sugar Coffee Roastery (coffee + restaurant): https://brownsugar.coffee/

    15 min

About

Fremont Biz is your go-to podcast for discovering the backbone of our vibrant Fremont County community—our local businesses. Co-hosted by Charene Herrera from County 10 and Owen Sweeney from the Lander Chamber of Commerce and this show highlights the unique character, fun facts, services, and stories behind the businesses that make Fremont County thrive. Join us as we delve into the heart of our community, showcasing the innovation, passion, and dedication that drive our local economy. Tune in to learn, be inspired, and support the incredible businesses that shape our everyday lives in Fremont County.