Lander Biz

Charene Herrera and Owen Sweeney
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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. Mar 23

    Mitch and Kim on Specialized Therapy and New Options at Fremont Therapy Group

    This episode features Kim Asbell and Mitch Johnson from Fremont Therapy Group as the company celebrates an incredible 30 years in business. Along with sharing a few personal updates, they reflect on what has helped shape Fremont Therapy into the upbeat, supportive, and trusted clinic it is today. Kim and Mitch talk about the culture of Fremont Therapy Group and why that atmosphere matters not only for patients, but also for the therapists who provide care every day. The conversation also dives into the evolving role of physical therapy. They share how Fremont Therapy works to recruit great clinicians through student placements and strong branding, while also helping people better understand that physical therapists are often the go-to musculoskeletal experts. Depending on insurance, patients may even have direct access options that make it easier to get started. Listeners will also hear about several of the newer services Fremont Therapy Group offers or will be offering, including shockwave therapy, laser therapy, and more. Kim and Mitch also touch on treatment for hand and overuse issues, women’s health and pelvic floor therapy, sports performance and return-to-sport care, and vestibular treatment for vertigo.

    25 min

  3. 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

  4. Feb 11

    Lunch & Learn Recap — The 5 H.O.P Principles with R.J. Jubber

    In this episode of Fremont Biz features R.J. Jubber of G.R.I.T. for a recap of the Lander Chamber’s Lunch & Learn and a practical conversation on Human and Organizational Performance (HOP). This framework is designed to help organizations manage human error, especially in high-risk environments. R.J. explains how HOP gained traction through the Department of Energy, and why the heart of HOP is understanding how people actually behave inside real-world systems. The group walks through the five HOP principles, including: accepting human fallibility, identifying and managing error-likely situations, recognizing how organizational processes shape behavior, understanding the power of reinforcement from leaders and peers, and learning from mistakes in a way that strengthens performance instead of repeating patterns. The episode also shares updates on upcoming Lunch & Learn events through the Lander Chamber, they have some high-profile speakers! Listen now and take away simple, actionable ideas you can apply in any workplace...whether you’re in a high-risk industry or just trying to build a more resilient team.

    24 min

  5. Feb 6

    Fremont Toyota: Community, Growth, and a RAV4 Hybrid Test Drive

    This episode of Fremont Biz takes us behind the scenes at Fremont Toyota in Lander for an in-depth visit with Garrott Smith—an outdoorsman, golfer, and enjoys being involved in the community. Garrott shares how Fremont Toyota has continued to grow, what that growth means for local jobs, and how the business stays connected to the community it serves. We talk about the importance of their service department plus Fremont Toyota’s strategic approach to the changing vehicle market—especially when it comes to EVs. Then, we take the conversation on the road. The hosts hop into a brand-new RAV4 Hybrid for a test drive and talk through the features, the smooth ride, and why this vehicle has become such a popular choice for families, commuters, and adventure-minded drivers alike. To wrap it up, Garrott gives us a look ahead at what’s next while highlighting the strong community spirit that makes Lander special, including support from local organizations like the Chamber of Commerce. Listen in for a fun, informative tour through one of Lander’s standout businesses—and a real look at how local growth, smart strategy, and community pride all go hand in hand.

    13 min

  6. Jan 31

    Take a Tour of Meadowlark Market & Kitchen: Good Food, Less Waste, More Local

    This episode of Fremont Biz is a field trip-style conversation recorded on location—an immersive tour through Meadowlark Market & Kitchen in Lander. Fremont Biz sits down with Val Shao, plus board members Hannah Darrin and Ryan Bresson, to explore how the market—operated by Slow Food Wind River—is strengthening our local food system. You’ll hear how Meadowlark supports local farmers, ranchers, and food makers, helps reduce food waste, and increases access to fresh, nutritious food... all while creating space for small producers and food entrepreneurs to grow. Along the way, the crew highlights what you can actually find in the market, from ready-to-eat/grab-and-go options to community events and educational programs that keep local food sustainability moving forward in Fremont County. The crew even had a chance to taste some freshly made soup, with fresh local ingredients!

    20 min

  7. 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

  8. 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
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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.

Information

  • Creator
    Charene Herrera and Owen Sweeney
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    46
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Lander Biz
  • Show Website
    Lander Biz