Anthony Nied started Safe & Simple Organic Lawns in 2018 because he knew of a market that had to be filled. In this BEAR Discussions podcast episode, Anthony talks to us about how he runs a seasonal business, the generational change in gardening interest, and how he grows his customer base and his business organically.

Sara Drolet is the owner of Water's Edge Cheese Curds and a Corporate Account Manager at High Line Foods: in short, she knows how to sell food to restaurants. In this podcast, we talk about how Sara markets to her customers ("sprinkles on the cheese"), how she attracts talent, and if she ever sees Water's Edge expanding to retail.

Join CCEDC's Charlie and Lisa for a special episode with two guests: Stacey Powell, RN, Director of Surgical Services for HSHS Sacred Heart and St. Joseph's Hospitals, and Kelli Olson, RN, Surgical OR Nurse at HSHS St. Joseph's Hospital. We talk about the healthcare industry, how the talent shortage has affected them, and how we can work towards mending the talent pipeline.

Have you ever wondered what the catalyst is for an entrepreneur to take the plunge? In this episode, hear Steve Millen's story of how he went from repairing small engines in his garage to owning one of the most successful equipment service and supply stores in the nation.

Tim Schilla has always had a passion for working on old cars and building things. CCEDC's Charlie Walker sits down with Schilla, owner of Auburn Rod & Custom, to talk about his passion for old cars and building, and the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur in the automotive industry.

Join the CCEDC for this week’s BEAR Discussions Podcast episode featuring Ryan Stolt, owner of the Bloomer Brewing Company. The brewery is a second-generation, family owned establishment started by Ryan’s father. Their building was recently renovated in 2020, which expanded their scope of business and has been instrumental in their success.

CCEDC Board Member Lisa Bruhn sits down with Christine Untiedt, owner of Brown Barn Botanicals, to talk about how she started her business, how it has evolved, and what her plans are for the next few years. Brown Barn Botanicals is a skincare company that sources most of its ingredients from their farm in Lake Holcombe, Wisconsin, and makes all of their products in-house.

Founder and owner of Martino's Pizza Place, Ron Haas, sits down with the CCEDC to discuss opening a restaurant, staying open and pivoting during the pandemic, and the effect that pushes for university attendance have had on the restaurant and trade industries. The title, "Lean Pizza," comes from a manufacturing term, to Lean, which is to make the line as efficient and cost-friendly as possible. Ron tells us how he Leans his Pizza.

CCEDC's Charlie Walker talks with Deb Leslie, a recent retiree of Workforce Resource Inc., about workforce development, finding your passion, being a great connector, and seeing every opportunity present. "If not me, then who?" -Deb Leslie

Lisa Bruhn talks with Wayne Lautsbaugh of Crescent Meats about business, meat packing, farming, and more!