BEAR Discussions

CEDC Podcasts
  • 0.0 (0)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Whether you are a local business leader, founder, economic developer, or curious community member, you will find thoughtful dialogue and practical takeaways on building stronger, more resilient economies. With a focus on learning and community insight, BEAR Discussions connects listeners to real-world perspectives on how businesses start, grow, and thrive.​ Each episode features candid conversations with business leaders, entrepreneurs, founders, policymakers, and industry experts about issues shaping regional development, from workforce and innovation to manufacturing, defense, and small business success. Business Expansion and Retention (BEAR) Discussions is a podcast by the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) that explores the strategies, stories, and people driving economic growth in the Chippewa Valley and beyond.

  1. JAN 23

    "New Beginnings, Limitless Horizons" - Amanda Novak - Episode 602

    This episode features Amanda Novak, entrepreneur and founder of NovaSky Marketing LLC, a company guided by creativity, strategy, and leading from the heart. We talk about Amanda’s path into entrepreneurship, how she started and runs NovaSky, and why staying people-first matters in business. It’s an honest conversation about growth, values, and keeping a clear vision while building something meaningful.

    30 min

  2. JAN 9

    "Mentorship That Wins" - Scott Coller - Episode 601

    In this episode of BEAR Discussions, we sit down with Scott Coller of Gesund Health Data, the HATCH 25 winner, for a conversation centered on the power of mentorship. Scott shares how guidance from mentors shaped his leadership, decision-making, and entrepreneurial journey — and why no one builds a successful company alone. From lessons learned to the importance of paying it forward, this episode highlights how mentorship can be a true competitive advantage.

    31 min
  3. Episode 526 - "Driven by Faith: Powered by People" - Scott Beers & Paul Lofthus

    12/26/2025

    Episode 526 - "Driven by Faith: Powered by People" - Scott Beers & Paul Lofthus

    Host Charlie Walker, joined by co-host Karen Smith, sits down with B and L Transload and Warehousing, LLC and Springbrook Express LLC of New Auburn to talk about their journey in the trucking and transload industry. The conversation covers company history, growth, employee retention, and why putting people first has been key to their success. The guests also share how keeping Christ at the center of their business shapes their culture, leadership, and long-term vision.

    29 min

  4. 12/12/2025

    Episode 525 - "Connecting Economies" - John Gatto

    Host Charlie Walker sits down with John Gatto of the Transatlantic Strategy Group to explore how U.S. and European markets are becoming increasingly interconnected. John breaks down what global policy shifts mean for regional business, where new opportunities are emerging, and how companies in the Chippewa Valley can stay ahead as the world economy continues to evolve.

    23 min

  5. 11/28/2025

    Episode 524 - "Start Small and Treat Them Right" - Tom Mannes

    On this episode of the CEDC BEAR Discussions Podcast, host Charlie Walker and co-host Ken Pearson sit down with Tom Mannes, a self-taught expert in defense manufacturing. For 25 years, Tom has navigated the complex world of working with the Department of Defense, growing his business from humble beginnings while emphasizing integrity, relationships, and attention to detail. Tune in to hear his insights on building trust in government contracting, lessons learned over decades, and why starting small—and treating every client right—can lead to lasting success.

    22 min

  6. 11/14/2025

    Episode 523 - "Quality Is The Secret Sauce" - John Wilkinson

    Host Charlie Walker and Co-Host Ken Pearson sit down with John Wilkinson of Simpson Electric to discuss the company’s legacy, products once used in wartime, and its dedication to inspiring and supporting the next generation of innovators. They also explore the lasting value of connection and the power of face-to-face collaboration in today’s world.

    20 min

  7. 10/31/2025

    Episode 522 - "Connecting, Leveraging, and Partnering" - Matt Frost

    In this episode of BEAR Discussions, Charlie Walker talks with Matt Frost from the Wisconsin Procurement Institute (WPI) about how WPI supports local businesses through government contracting guidance, technical assistance, and opportunity navigation. Matt shares how WPI helps companies confidently pursue federal, state, and local contracts, and highlights their strong partnership with the CEDC in strengthening the Chippewa Valley’s economic growth and business readiness.

    19 min

  8. 10/17/2025

    Episode 521 - "Be Kind & Be Present" - Rogers Behavioral Health

    Host Charlie Walker sits down with Cindy Meyer and her team from Rogers Behavioral Health to discuss the importance of mental wellness in the workplace and community. Together, they explore how kindness, presence, and compassion can foster healthier environments for everyone.

    21 min
See All (125)

About

Whether you are a local business leader, founder, economic developer, or curious community member, you will find thoughtful dialogue and practical takeaways on building stronger, more resilient economies. With a focus on learning and community insight, BEAR Discussions connects listeners to real-world perspectives on how businesses start, grow, and thrive.​ Each episode features candid conversations with business leaders, entrepreneurs, founders, policymakers, and industry experts about issues shaping regional development, from workforce and innovation to manufacturing, defense, and small business success. Business Expansion and Retention (BEAR) Discussions is a podcast by the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) that explores the strategies, stories, and people driving economic growth in the Chippewa Valley and beyond.

Information

  • Creator
    CEDC Podcasts
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    125
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright CEDC Podcasts
  • Show Website
    BEAR Discussions