Williston Works

Williston Economic Development

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Williston Works brings you in-depth discussions with entrepreneurs, small business owners and investors that are getting it done in Western North Dakota. Hosted by Shawn Wenko, the Executive Director of Williston Economic Development, Williston Works finds out what it takes to make it in the Bakken.

12/17/2025

Funding the Dream: How Williston Helps Businesses Grow | Williston Works 2.0

In this episode of the Williston Works Podcast, host Anna Nelson sits down with Taylor Grundstad of American State Bank and Jackie Duke of Bank of North Dakota to talk about how funding tools like the STAR Fund and Flex PACE are helping local businesses thrive in Williston. Learn how public-private partnerships are making financing easier, what makes Williston’s approach to economic development unique, and how business owners can tap into interest buy-down programs, startup resources, and grant funding. Plus, hear how collaboration between local lenders, the STAR Fund Board, and state-level programs is fueling long-term investment in Northwest North Dakota. Learn more about Williston Economic Development: https://www.willistondevelopment.com

50 min
11/25/2025

Built for the Community: Inside Williston Water World & the Team Behind It | Williston Works 2.0

In this episode of the Williston Works Podcast, host Anna Nelson sits down with members of the Williston Community Builders, Brooke Mapes, Lexi Halvorson, Heather Stevens, and Nick Lippert, to talk about the story behind Williston Water World and the mission that drives their nonprofit. They share how this community-led project came to life, what it took to earn two statewide awards, and how public-private partnerships are creating lasting impact across the region. Learn how grassroots efforts, local pride, and volunteer energy are shaping Williston’s future—one project at a time. Learn more about Williston Economic Development:https://www.willistondevelopment.com

49 min
10/22/2025

Brewing Success & Growth: Entrepreneurship in Williston | Williston Works 2.0

In this episode of the Williston Works Podcast, host Anna Nelson sits down with Louise Skaare, founder of Young Bucks Coffee and The Cabin, to talk about entrepreneurship, expansion, and community in Williston. Louise shares how her business grew from a single idea into multiple thriving locations and why connection, faith, and perseverance have been at the heart of that growth. The conversation also highlights her work with Brew Your Business, a local network supporting entrepreneurs across the region. Learn how Louise’s story reflects the small-town values, collaboration, and creativity driving Williston’s business community forward. Learn more about Williston Economic Development: https://www.willistondevelopment.com

38 min
09/09/2025

Shaping the Future: Real Estate Growth in Williston

In this episode of the Williston Works Podcast, host Anna Nelson sits down with Lucas Natwick, Realtor with eXp Realty and president of the Williston Board of Realtors, to break down the state of Williston’s housing and commercial markets. They cover why the average list price has shifted to just under $400K, what a two-month absorption rate means for buyers and sellers, and how a renter-to-listing imbalance is tightening supply. The conversation also highlights the Board of Realtors’ community education efforts and the major projects on the horizon that could further increase demand. Learn more about Williston Economic Development: https://www.willistondevelopment.com

26 min
08/11/2025

Solving the Housing Puzzle: Incentivizing Builders and Buyers

In this episode of the Williston Works Podcast, host Anna Nelson sits down with Lindsey Harriman, Community Engagement Coordinator for Williams County, to discuss the newly launched Builder Buyer Housing Incentive Program. They explore how this two-pronged initiative supports both builders and buyers to address housing needs across the region, from helping first-time homeowners to encouraging new development. Lindsey shares the program’s origins, how it works, and the early interest it’s generating from the community. Learn more about the Williams County Builder Buyer Program: https://www.williamsnd.com Learn more about Williston Economic Development: https://www.willistondevelopment.com

29 min
07/22/2025

Bridging The Talent Gap: Workforce Innovation in North Dakota

In this episode of the Williston Works Podcast, host Anna Nelson sits down with Katie Ralston Howe, Deputy Commissioner of the North Dakota Department of Commerce, to discuss the innovative programs and partnerships that are reshaping North Dakota's workforce. They cover public-private collaborations, efforts to retain talent, and how workforce development is being reimagined across the state. Learn about the challenges facing North Dakota’s labor force and the bold strategies being used to close the talent gap. Learn more about North Dakota Workforce Development:https://www.commerce.nd.gov/workforce Learn more about Williston Economic Development:https://www.willistondevelopment.com

52 min
05/09/2025

Classroom to Career: Advancing Careers Through CTE

In this episode of the Williston Works Podcast, host Anna Nelson is joined by Kenzi Brown, Haley Jeannotte, and Jana Jirik to talk about how Career and Technical Education is opening new doors for students across the Williston Basin. They discuss how CTE programs are helping high school students earn certifications, gain hands-on experience, and prepare for in-demand careers. Learn how the Williston Basin CTE Center, partnerships with industry, and events like Career Signing Day are reshaping the future workforce of Northwest North Dakota. Check out the Williston Basin CTE Center: https://www.willistonschools.org/o/wbctec Learn more about Williston Economic Development:https://www.willistondevelopment.com

54 min
04/30/2025

Dressing for Success: Building a Brand in Williston Square

In this episode of the Williston Works Podcast, host Anna Nelson sits down with Lenny Johnson, owner of Genesis, to talk about his journey from military service to small business ownership, what inspired the creation of Genesis, and how Williston's growth has shaped his business. Learn about the evolution of Williston’s retail scene, the opportunities available for entrepreneurs, and how Genesis has become a trusted name for clothing, footwear, and eyewear in Northwest North Dakota. Plus, hear how Williston Square is creating new possibilities for local businesses and the community. Explore Genesis online at shopgenesis.com Learn more about Williston Economic Development:https://www.willistondevelopment.com

27 min

5

out of 5

4 Ratings

Williston Works brings you in-depth discussions with entrepreneurs, small business owners and investors that are getting it done in Western North Dakota. Hosted by Shawn Wenko, the Executive Director of Williston Economic Development, Williston Works finds out what it takes to make it in the Bakken.

Creator

Williston Economic Development
Years Active

2018 - 2025
Episodes

53
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Williston Economic Development
Show Website

Williston Works