Joe Roshell of Orion Defense Systems joins BEAR Discussions to share how “old boys” mentoring, smart partnerships, and steady learning helped him build a growing commercial roof-coatings business through volatile early years, talent challenges, and rapid innovation in both coatings and AI-driven marketing

In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker and therapist Andrea Polnaszek of the Boylan Sisters to talk movies, books, Wisconsin’s growing film industry, and how stories connect communities.

Charlie sits down with Brandon Mitchell of Block 49 Meats to explore how a family legacy evolved into a modern meat business. Brandon shares the realities of launching a startup, the challenges and rewards of building a company from the ground up alongside his spouse, and the importance of strong mentors and community connections along the way. The conversation offers practical insights and lessons Brandon hopes will resonate with other entrepreneurs navigating their own business journeys.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.