Bear With Us Podcast

Bear Paw Development Corporation
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Non-Profit

Join hosts Sara and Julea as they explore the people, places, and stories that make Montana’s Hi-Line unforgettable. Bear With Us is a podcast from Bear Paw Development that highlights the charm, culture, and community spirit across five counties and two tribal nations in North Central Montana.From hometown heroes and local legends to quirky events and hidden gems, each episode offers a fresh perspective on life along the Hi-Line. Whether you’re a longtime local or just curious about this vast and beautiful region, you’re invited to laugh, learn, and discover what makes this place more than just a dot on the map.And don’t worry—there are zero bears. Probably.

  1. 4d ago

    It’s Not Just a Road, It’s Everything Underneath It; An Interview With Trevor Mork

    What does it actually take to keep a city running? In this episode of Bear With Us, we sit down with Trevor Mork, Director of Public Works for the City of Havre, to talk about the infrastructure most of us rarely think about-until something goes wrong. From drinking water and sanitary sewer systems to stormwater, flood control, streets, sidewalks, snow removal, and solid waste, Public Works touches nearly every part of daily life in Havre. Trevor gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges facing the city, the importance of planning for infrastructure that will last for generations, and why sometimes fixing what’s underneath the road has to come before paving the road itself. We also talk about aging infrastructure, water security, funding challenges, major projects around Havre, and the difficult decisions communities have to make when there is never enough money to do everything at once. And Trevor shares a few of his “if I won the lottery” ideas for Havre—including some pretty ambitious plans for historic buildings, the grain elevator, and a Great Plains museum. Most importantly, Trevor reminds us that the city belongs to all of us. Residents have a role to play-not just in raising concerns, but in understanding the challenges and being part of the solutions. So the next time you drive down a smooth road, turn on your faucet, or watch the snow disappear from your street, remember: there’s a whole lot happening underneath it. 🎙️ Bear With Us is a podcast from Bear Paw Development exploring the people, places, projects, and stories shaping north central Montana.

    It’s Not Just a Road, It’s Everything Underneath It; An Interview With Trevor Mork

  2. Aug 12

    The Stories Behind the Projects, The People Behind the Stories, One Year of Bear With Us, an interview with Bear Paw Development

    For one year, Bear With Us has been sharing the people, projects, and ideas making a difference across north central Montana. In this special anniversary episode, we take a look back at where the podcast began, some of our favorite conversations and memorable moments, and the stories behind the projects we’ve had the opportunity to highlight. We talk about why storytelling matters in economic development, the incredible people who are helping their communities thrive, the power of partnerships, and the importance of shining a light on the success stories happening across rural Montana. We also celebrate a pretty exciting milestone: Bear With Us is officially an award-winning podcast! As we look ahead to year two, we’re talking about what’s next for the podcast, the guests and stories we hope to bring you, and why sharing the voices of the Hi-line continues to matter. Thank you for bearing with us for the past year, and for being part of the story. Here’s to many more conversations, community champions, and stories worth telling!

    The Stories Behind the Projects, The People Behind the Stories, One Year of Bear With Us, an interview with Bear Paw Development

  3. Jun 8

    Silver Screens & Small Town Dreams: An Interview With Conrad Wendland

    In this episode of Bear With Us, we sit down with Conrad Wendland, owner of the historic Hi-line Theater in Rudyard, Montana. From working on film sets in Los Angeles to returning home to farm and revive a beloved small-town movie theater, Conrad shares his incredible journey and passion for storytelling, community, and preserving rural Montana traditions. We talk about: The history of the Hi-line Theater Mystery Movie Wednesdays Fossil Fest in Rudyard The magic of movie theaters in small towns Hollywood vs. Hi-line life Why local businesses and community spaces matter Along the way, we dive into everything from Jurassic Park and cult classics to the future of rural communities across Montana’s Hi-line. If you love movies, small towns, nostalgia, or stories about people making a difference in their communities, this episode is for you. Be sure to like, subscribe, and follow along for more conversations highlighting the people, places, and projects that make North Central Montana special

    Silver Screens & Small Town Dreams: An Interview With Conrad Wendland

  4. Apr 1

    Investing in Students, Investing in Community: An Interview With Melanie Skoyen

    🎙️ Bear With Us Podcast | MSU Northern, Morgan Hall & Building the Future Welcome back to Bear With Us, the podcast from Bear Paw Development where we highlight the people, projects, and partnerships shaping North Central Montana. In this episode, Julea is joined by guest co-host Stephanie Larson to talk all things MSU Northern—from student experiences to the powerful impact of investing in higher education. They sit down with Melanie Skoyen, Managing Director of the Northern Alumni Foundation, to discuss how alumni, community members, and donors are helping shape the future of campus life. 🏫 In this episode, we cover: The mission and impact of the Northern Alumni Foundation The exciting renovation campaign for Morgan Hall How campus improvements support student success and retention The role MSU Northern plays in strengthening the Hi-Line economy Opportunities for alumni, businesses, and community members to get involved 💡 You’ll also hear personal stories about what makes Northern special—from lifelong connections to unforgettable college memories (including hiding from a storm in a stranger’s basement 😅). 💙 Whether you're an alum, a community member, or just curious about the future of rural education, this episode highlights how investing in students today builds stronger communities tomorrow. 🔗 Learn more or get involved: Visit the Northern Alumni Foundation website or stop by their office in Cowan Hall on campus. 👍 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to support local stories and voices! #BearWithUs #MSUNorthern #HiLineMontana #HigherEducation #CommunityDevelopment #Montana

    Investing in Students, Investing in Community: An Interview With Melanie Skoyen

  5. Feb 12

    Rooted in Chinook, Growing in Havre & Blooming Where You're Planted: an Interview With Tomi Simenson

    In this episode of Bear With Us, we sit down with Tomi Simonson, owner of Shores Floral, to talk about what it really means to bloom where you’re planted 🌸 Rooted in Chinook and now growing into Havre, Tomi shares her journey from part-time employee to business owner, the leap of expanding into a second location, and the realities of entrepreneurship in rural Montana. From weddings and wildflowers to risk-taking and resilience, this conversation is full of heart, hustle, and Highline pride. We talk about: 🌷 Taking over a long-standing community business 🌷 Expanding into Havre and what smart growth looks like 🌷 The challenges (and rewards) of rural entrepreneurship 🌷 Why consistency matters in small-town business 🌷 Building community through generosity — including the “Blessed by Blooms” program Whether you’re a small business owner, dreaming of starting something new, or just love a good story about local growth, this episode is for you. Be sure to like, subscribe, and support your local small businesses — and maybe don’t wait until 5pm on Valentine’s Day to order flowers 😉 Thanks for Bearing With Us! 🐻

    Rooted in Chinook, Growing in Havre & Blooming Where You're Planted: an Interview With Tomi Simenson

  6. Jan 28

    Montana, Motorcycles, and Making Laws: An Interview with Senator Russ Tempel

    In this episode of Bear With Us, we sit down with Montana State Senator Russ Tempel to talk about life in the legislature, advocating for rural communities, and the realities of representing one of the largest and most diverse districts in the state. From county commissioner to the Capitol, Senator Temple shares how decisions made in Helena ripple across the Hi-Line and North Central Montana. We dive into what a legislative session really looks like, the challenges rural lawmakers face, and the policies that matter most to small towns — including transportation, infrastructure, agriculture, and public safety. Plus, we talk motorcycles, lane-splitting legislation, and why understanding Montana’s backroads is just as important as understanding the bills. Whether you’re curious about state government, passionate about rural Montana, or just here for the motorcycle stories, this episode offers a thoughtful and approachable look at leadership, policy, and the people behind the laws. 🎙️ Bear With Us is a podcast from Bear Paw Development, highlighting the people, places, and policies shaping North Central Montana.

    Montana, Motorcycles, and Making Laws: An Interview with Senator Russ Tempel

  7. Jan 14

    From Somewhere Else to City Hall: An Interview with Whitley Nelson

    In this episode of Bear With Us, we sit down with Whitley Nelson, the newly appointed town clerk for Fort Benton, to talk about her unexpected path into local government and what it’s really like behind the scenes at City Hall. From working in different cities and industries to landing back in Montana, Whitley shares how she found her way to Fort Benton, stepped into public service, and took on one of the most essential (and often misunderstood) roles in small-town government. We talk about budgets, spreadsheets, public service, community involvement, and the realities of being the go-to person for just about everything. Whether you’re curious about how local government actually works, interested in small-town leadership, or just love hearing stories about people who unexpectedly find their place, this episode is for you. 🎙️ Bear With Us is a podcast from Bear Paw Development highlighting the people, projects, and leadership shaping North Central Montana. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone interested in community leadership and small-town life.

    From Somewhere Else to City Hall: An Interview with Whitley Nelson

  8. Jan 1

    From One Mayor to the Next: An Interview with Doug Kaercher and Wade Bitz

    In this special episode of Bear With Us, we sit down with Havre’s outgoing mayor, Doug Kaercher, and incoming mayor, Wade Bitz, for a candid conversation during a pivotal moment of leadership transition. Together, we reflect on where Havre has been, the challenges and accomplishments of recent years, and what lies ahead as the city enters its next chapter. Doug shares lessons learned from decades of public service, while Wade discusses what motivated him to step into the mayor’s role and what he’s most excited (and mindful) of as he takes office. From infrastructure and community engagement to leadership philosophy, social media challenges, and even a few lighthearted moments, this episode offers an inside look at how local government works—and why community involvement matters. 🎧 Topics include: Reflections on Doug Kaercher’s time as mayorWhat inspired Wade Bitz to run for officeInfrastructure, funding, and long-term planningCivic responsibility and community partnershipsThe importance of listening, leadership, and collaborationThank you for tuning in to Bear With Us, the podcast from Bear Paw Development, where we highlight the people, projects, and partnerships shaping North Central Montana. 👉 Be sure to like, subscribe, and share to stay up to date on future episodes—and as always, thanks for bearing with us.

    From One Mayor to the Next: An Interview with Doug Kaercher and Wade Bitz
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Join hosts Sara and Julea as they explore the people, places, and stories that make Montana’s Hi-Line unforgettable. Bear With Us is a podcast from Bear Paw Development that highlights the charm, culture, and community spirit across five counties and two tribal nations in North Central Montana.From hometown heroes and local legends to quirky events and hidden gems, each episode offers a fresh perspective on life along the Hi-Line. Whether you’re a longtime local or just curious about this vast and beautiful region, you’re invited to laugh, learn, and discover what makes this place more than just a dot on the map.And don’t worry—there are zero bears. Probably.

Information

  • Creator
    Bear Paw Development Corporation
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Bear With Us Podcast
  • Show Website
    Bear With Us Podcast