Diane Seyler and Irene Barmore join to discuss La Crosse Sister Cities.

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Leo Bronston, owner of Bronston Chiropractic, which is based in Onalaska, joins. Bronston recently received the Chiropractor of the Year award from the Wisconsin Chiropractors Association.

Bronston talks about how his early exposure to the medical field through his mother, a nurse, led him to pursue chiropractic care. He discusses the rigorous educational process and challenges of starting and running a chiropractic business.

Bronston also explains his progressive approach, which includes integrating physical therapy and other health services, as well as his involvement in health care policy at the state and national levels.

He emphasizes a holistic and team-based approach to health care and highlights his efforts to improve access and affordability.

Bronston also shares insights into working with employers to provide comprehensive care for workers, reflecting on the evolution of his practice and his commitment to patient care and community health.

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La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron joins to delve into the pivotal role of leadership, community interaction, and mental wellness in modern policing. Kudron reflects on his journey from Nebraska to Wisconsin, offering insights into his career progression across various roles within law enforcement. He discusses the department's ongoing efforts to foster community engagement, support mental health, and train officers effectively amidst budget constraints. From managing crises like COVID-19 to improving relationships with stakeholders, Chief Kudron emphasizes the importance of steady leadership, community service, and the unseen efforts behind maintaining public safety. Discover how the La Crosse Police Department is evolving to meet recruitment challenges and leveraging technology to solve cold cases, enhancing safety, and improving the overall well-being of officers and the community.

00:00 Introduction and Community Connection
00:14 Meet the Host and Guest
00:50 Chief Kudron's Journey into Law Enforcement
03:21 Career Progression and Roles
04:22 Leadership and Department Philosophy
06:36 Handling Feedback and Crisis Situations
17:34 Mental Health Initiatives
18:46 Community Resource and NRO Programs
21:49 Perception and Culture in Policing
26:09 Police Officer Support and Wellness Initiatives
29:26 Challenges in Police Recruitment
33:40 Balancing Stakeholder Needs
38:59 Community Engagement and Public Safety
45:57 Addressing Homelessness and Community Issues
48:25 The Role of Surveillance and Technology
50:28 Concluding Thoughts on Community and Service

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Exploring the rich history, ongoing impact and personal journeys of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration. 

Joining is Sister Mary Ann Gschwind, discussing the Sister’s origins in Bavaria, their establishment in La Crosse, and notable contributions such as the founding of Viterbo University and St. Francis Hospital (now Mayo Clinic). 

Sister Gschwind talks about the community's evolution, including downsizing efforts for the Sisters, and their enduring work in education, healthcare, and community service. 

Through Sister Gschwind’s touching personal stories, you will learn about the Sisters' dedication to a life of faith, highlighted by significant figures like Sister Rose Francois and Sister Thea Bowman, with reflections on overcoming challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and a historic chapel fire. 

This episode captures the essence of devotion, showcasing how these sisters continue to influence and serve their communities despite changing times.

00:00 Introduction to the Franciscan Sisters' Journey
00:16 Welcome to Biz Cast Greater Lacrosse
01:35 The Franciscan Sisters' Early Challenges
02:49 Establishing Roots in La Crosse
04:17 The Legacy of Perpetual Adoration
05:05 Impact of the Pandemic on the Sisters
05:53 The Remarkable Chapel and Its History
08:16 Changes and Downsizing in the Community
09:31 Evolving Roles and Community Involvement
13:24 Spirituality and Lay People Involvement
16:37 Commitment to Prayer
17:15 Early Life and Vocation
18:36 Educational Journey
20:35 Leadership Roles and Achievements
25:23 International Experiences
30:00 Reflections and Legacy

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The Scouts BSA organization is rebranding to Scouting America by 2025 — continuing to welcome both boys and girls, while preserving core principles like the Scout Oath, Scout Law and the pursuit of becoming an Eagle Scout. 

Executive Director Joe Carlson talks about how the Gateway Area Council in La Crosse remains unchanged. 

Scouting emphasizes service, outdoor activities and leadership with programs that help kids build skills relevant in real-world contexts and recognized by employers.

The new career-exploration program offers high school students hands-on experiences in various fields, such as firefighting, law enforcement, aviation and engineering.

Additionally, Scout camps like Camp Decorah offer numerous outdoor activities and facility improvements for various age groups.

Upcoming events include an adult Pinewood Derby on Nov. 7, providing an exciting program expansion for families and adults alike.

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Morgan Farmer, the executive vice president of Park Bank joins. Morgan tells how his father Doug started Park Bank and his family’s deep roots in the industry, dating back to 1980. Morgan shares insights into the bank's operations — from its expansion and community impact to its specialization in small business financing and residential mortgages. The conversation highlights the importance of local banking, customer success and navigating challenges, like cybersecurity and technological advancements. Morgan's passion for his team and the community-oriented approach at Park Bank underscores its commitment to local success. 

00:00 Introduction to BizCast and Park Bank
00:30 Meet Morgan Farmer: Park Bank's Executive VP
00:55 The Family-Owned Legacy of Park Bank
02:34 Morgan's Journey Back to La Crosse
03:56 Park Bank's Expansion and Community Impact
05:51 Local Banking and Customer Relationships
07:58 Board of Directors and Business Focus
13:49 Adapting to Technological Changes
16:08 Interest Rates and Economic Impact
22:33 Challenges in Housing and Homeownership
26:03 Morgan's Passion for Banking

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Kevin Ruetten joins, as we explore how he provides services to businesses to connect with employees while having two employers – the Western Wisconsin Workforce Development Board and Western Technical College.

Ruetten develops training programs and finds talent in new ways by connecting individuals working with the Workforce Development partners to employers. Then works with Western Technical College to get employers custom training to upscale employees and strengthen the workforce. 

An example of his work is an annual career fair, now rebranded as Coulee Career Fest, Sept 17, at the Onalaska OmniCenter, where jobseekers can connect with 75 employers and various resource booths.

Ruetten also emphasizes the importance of early career education in schools. He highlights the success of youth apprenticeships in manufacturing. 

Additionally, the role of The Upper Mississippi Manufacturers Alliance (TUMMA) in promoting manufacturing careers and the services provided to companies downsizing are discussed.

00:00 Introduction to the Business Services Position
00:30 Western Technical College Programs
02:22 Connecting Employers and Job Seekers
02:59 Coulee Career Fest Details
03:59 Diverse Job Opportunities
05:59 Engaging High Schools in Career Development
09:59 The Upper Midwest Manufacturers Association Initiatives
13:33 Supporting Companies During Downsizing

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Imagine what it takes to run a business that is 107 years old. That's Joel House's new job, as he takes over as president of La Crosse Sign Group, with Paul Fuchsel retiring. House, who's also a new dad, joins to talk about how the company values are still front and center. We discuss the operations of the company, which specializes in custom, electrical, and illuminated signage in Wisconsin. 

You’ll also learn about the challenges and intricacies involved in sign creation, including interpreting sign codes, project management and the importance of customer interaction. House also shares insights into his leadership style, rooted in his Air Force experience, plus his commitment to fostering a supportive and adaptable company culture. 

The episode covers the recent acquisition of Graf Electric and the integration of newer technologies like digital and solar signage. Discover how House balances maintaining core values with innovation to keep the 107-year-old company thriving.

00:00 Introduction to BizCast and La Crosse Sign Company
00:44 Understanding La Crosse Sign's Services and Reach
01:40 The Importance of Signage for Businesses
02:23 Navigating Sign Codes and Community Regulations
06:40 Diverse Signage Solutions and Custom Projects
09:21 Acquisition of Graf Electric and Business Integration
11:41 Joel House's Background and Leadership Philosophy
15:51 History and Ownership of La Crosse Sign Company
17:34 Marketing and Community Connections
18:32 Transitioning Leadership
19:24 Core Values and Company Culture
23:47 Employee Recognition and Support
28:15 Innovations in Signage
30:02 Future Directions and Digital Signage
34:07 Passion for Growth and Success
36:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Matt Boshcka, a remarkable serial entrepreneur, who has worn many business hats in the La Crosse area, joins.

Boshcka shares his journey from growing up in a humble setting to owning various successful businesses, including Cannabis Depot, Dream Vacations, and a travel foundation for victims of domestic abuse. In this episode, Boshcka discusses his business philosophy, the importance of having exit strategies, his passion for travel, and his new venture into men's health through Game Day Men's Health.

Learn about the highs and lows of his entrepreneurial journey, his belief in giving back to the community, and his relentless pursuit of happiness and self-improvement.

00:00 Introduction and Opening Thoughts
00:22 Welcome to Biz Cast Greater La Crosse
00:31 Meet Matt Boshcka: The Serial Entrepreneur
00:43 Matt's Business Ventures
02:35 From Humble Beginnings to Entrepreneurial Success
04:18 The First Business: Smart Health Media
06:14 The Importance of Exit Strategies
08:21 The Value of Taking Risks
11:39 Community Support and Entrepreneurship
17:12 Travel and Business Synergy
19:57 Challenges in the Restaurant Industry
21:14 Impact of Inflation on Food Costs
22:25 Owning and Transforming a Golf Course
23:16 Forming Business Partnerships
23:57 Deciding When to Sell a Business
24:34 Opportunities and Investments
25:51 Introduction to Game Day Men's Health
27:34 Personal Interests and Business Alignment
30:05 Community Involvement and Rotary Membership
31:43 Franchising Experience
34:29 Future Plans and Personal Growth
36:30 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

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Sarah Burns, owner of Omega Bakery, joins. Sarah shares her journey from being a box mix baker to owning a dedicated gluten-free bakery in Holmen, specializing in allergy-friendly baking. The conversation touches on Sarah's initial health-driven motivation, her progression from home baking to farmers markets, and eventually opening a storefront that now employs 10. Some of her co-workers and students at Onalaska High went from testers to package designers to watching Sarah launch the bakery. As Sarah soon realized – baking became therapy, and it also became a growing business for her entire family. We also discuss the challenges of teaching high school math during the pandemic, pivoting business strategies, and the importance of thoughtful marketing. 

Tune in to learn about Sarah's approach to developing gluten-free recipes, managing growth, and her future plans for Omega Bakery.

00:00 Starting a Business with Rick
00:16 Welcome to BizCast: Meet Sarah Burns
00:50 Introducing Omega Bakery
01:43 From Box Mix to Scratch Baking
03:08 The Science of Gluten-Free Baking
04:03 Testing and Perfecting Recipes
08:03 First Sales and Growing Demand
10:51 Rebranding to Omega Bakery
14:14 Balancing Teaching and Baking
14:42 Navigating the Pandemic
18:10 Porch Pop-Up Sales and Market Success
20:32 Making the Leap to Full-Time Baking
23:23 Opening a Storefront: A Logical Step
23:53 Navigating Home Kitchen Limitations
24:31 Market Strategies and Data-Driven Decisions
26:00 The Impact of the Pandemic on Business Growth
26:50 Expanding Market Presence
27:50 Hosting and Curating Local Events
28:59 Building a Community of Makers and Bakers
31:20 From Home Kitchen to Commercial Space
37:33 Marketing and Customer Engagement
39:59 Future Plans and Passion for Baking
44:16 Conclusion and Reflections

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