Bridge Out Ahead

Can you just send me a rate card? Tami Kottke's answer is no. Tami is the senior marketing consultant at Rapids Radio in Grand Rapids, and after almost 24 years in local radio, she starts every campaign with a conversation, not a price sheet.

Tami wanted to be an elementary school teacher until a statistics class and a blunt professor changed her path. She moved north in 1994 knowing almost nobody, helped open the Grand Rapids Target, and was working at Reed Drug when Bill Kerwin walked in and asked her to come sell radio. She started with three clients.

She and Bridger dig into what makes a radio campaign work: a clear message, enough repetition to stick, and realistic expectations. You'll hear why businesses that try to be everywhere often get nowhere, why a business owner should voice their own ad, and why an agency in another state can't know this market like someone who lives here. In a myth-or-fact round, she takes on "radio doesn't work anymore" and "I'm too busy to advertise." Her toolbox takeaway comes from her 92-year-old dad: find something you love to do and do it really well.

Find More about Rapids Radio Here:

Website: https://www.kozyradio.com/

Phone: 218-999-5699 (ask for Tami Kottke)

Key moments include:

(01:06) From wanting to teach kindergarten to a new path

(05:27) How she landed in radio

(08:33) What makes a good ad campaign

(17:20) The biggest marketing mistake businesses make

(30:09) Myth or fact: does radio still work?

(37:50) Toolbox takeaway: find something you love and do it well

FOR MORE BRIDGE OUT AHEAD

Website: https://www.bridgeoutahead.net/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgeoutaheadpodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Bridge-Out-Ahead/

BUYING OR SELLING IN NORTHERN MINNESOTA?

Bridger Hopkins leads Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Start here: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/

Contact the team: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/contact/

ABOUT BRIDGE OUT AHEAD

Bridge Out Ahead is the podcast exploring what's under construction in life, business, and community. If you're interested in business, leadership, personal growth, community impact, or navigating seasons of change, this show is for you.

CONNECT WITH BRIDGER

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HomesWithHopkins/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgerh/

SHOW CREDITS

This episode is brought to you by Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate.

Theme music: "We're Making Good Time" by Jed LaPlant

Walker Maasch, a septic designer and inspector in Northern Minnesota, knows that proper maintenance is crucial to keep your system functioning. Without it, you could face costly repairs and environmental hazards. During this episode, Walker shares the importance of routine maintenance for septic systems and dives into the process of designing and inspecting these essential systems for homeowners. He recounts a critical moment when a lack of maintenance led to a major incident, highlighting the stakes involved in septic care.

Walker Maasch is the owner of Precision Design and Inspection.
Find more about their services here: https://www.mnprecision.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100072228317314

FOR MORE BRIDGE OUT AHEAD
Website: https://www.bridgeoutahead.net/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgeoutaheadpodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Bridge-Out-Ahead/

BUYING OR SELLING IN NORTHERN MINNESOTA?
Bridger Hopkins leads Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Start here: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/
Contact the team: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/contact/

ABOUT BRIDGE OUT AHEAD
Bridge Out Ahead is a podcast of honest conversations from Grand Rapids and northern Minnesota. We dig into what's under construction in life, business, and community: the plan, what knocked it off course, and what got built next.

CONNECT WITH BRIDGER
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HomesWithHopkins/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgerh/

SHOW CREDITS
This episode is brought to you by Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate. Getting you home.
Theme music: "We're Making Good Time" by Jed LaPlant

“We were definitely handed a legacy, not a business.” Tara Bender, co-owner and marketing manager of Bender Shoes, Clothing and Gift in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, explains what it really takes to lead a third-generation family company with three locations across northern Minnesota. If you’ve ever wondered how a hometown business survives 50+ years without losing its edge, this conversation shows the pressure behind the name on the building. You hear how a family store built on customer service, community ties, and face-to-face trust keeps adapting to online shopping, shifting inventory, and a new generation of leadership. Tara shares the real cost of stepping into the family business, from proving herself at the table to carrying payroll, tough conversations, and big life changes while still showing up for customers.

Guest: Tara Bender - co-owner and marketing manager, Bender Shoes, Clothing and Gift, Grand Rapids, Minnesota

Find more here: https://www.bendersshoes.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bendersmn/

Time Stamps
(00:00) growing up in a family business

(01:25) the history of Bender Shoes

(05:03) proving yourself in a legacy business

(06:31) how the business grew to three locations

(09:49) leaving college and coming back to the store

(15:44) EOS and accountability systems

(35:49) marketing, social media, and AI search

(41:16) the toolbox takeaway: always have a choice

FOR MORE BRIDGE OUT AHEAD
Website: https://www.bridgeoutahead.net/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgeoutaheadpodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Bridge-Out-Ahead/

BUYING OR SELLING IN NORTHERN MINNESOTA?
Bridger Hopkins leads Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Start here: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/
Contact the team: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/contact/

ABOUT BRIDGE OUT AHEAD
Bridge Out Ahead is the podcast exploring what's under construction in life, business, and community. The detours, the rebuilds, and the vision still ahead. Bridger sits down with business owners, builders, and community leaders to unpack what it actually takes to build a life and work that lasts. If you're interested in business, leadership, personal growth, community impact, or navigating seasons of change, this show is for you.

CONNECT WITH BRIDGER
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HomesWithHopkins/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgerh/

SHOW CREDITS
This episode is brought to you by Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate. Getting you home.
Theme music: "We're Making Good Time" by Jed LaPlant

The role of a state auditor can seem distant and confusing—yet it holds immense power over how local governments manage your tax dollars. Jay Reeves, an independent candidate for Minnesota State Auditor, reveals the critical functions of this office and how proactive oversight can prevent fraud and misuse of funds before it's too late.

Jay's journey from an East Side kid in St. Paul to a military officer and now a state auditor candidate is inspiring. With a background in data analytics and health informatics, he brings a unique perspective on how transparency and accountability can reshape local governance. You'll discover how Jay plans to leverage real-time data systems to enhance public trust, the importance of community engagement in local governance, and the transformative power of technology in public auditing. One standout story from the episode is Jay's personal battle with cancer, which adds depth to his mission of making government more accessible and accountable to the people it serves.

You'll also hear about the differences between the state auditor and legislative auditor roles, the necessity for a proactive rather than reactive approach to auditing, and how AI can be utilized to spot trends and anomalies in government spending. This episode is a vital listen for anyone who wants to understand the intersection of local governance and citizen engagement.

Find More about Jay Here:
Website: https://jayreevesformn.com/#office
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580317456323
Email: [email protected]

Key moments include:
(02:12) Jay's background and military service
(07:03) Understanding the state auditor's role
(10:20) The need for proactive auditing systems
(12:15) The role of AI in public auditing
(14:22) Jay's vision for a transparent government

FOR MORE BRIDGE OUT AHEAD
Website: https://www.bridgeoutahead.net/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgeoutaheadpodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Bridge-Out-Ahead/

BUYING OR SELLING IN NORTHERN MINNESOTA?
Bridger Hopkins leads Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Start here: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/
Contact the team: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/contact/

ABOUT BRIDGE OUT AHEAD
Bridge Out Ahead is the podcast exploring what's under construction in life, business, and community. If you're interested in business, leadership, personal growth, community impact, or navigating seasons of change, this show is for you.

CONNECT WITH BRIDGER
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HomesWithHopkins/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgerh/

SHOW CREDITS
This episode is brought to you by Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate.
Theme music: "We're Making Good Time" by Jed LaPlant"

As a wife, mother, and entrepreneur, Madisen's story is one of resilience and creativity. You’ll discover how she transitioned from writing chapter books in her teens to creating children's stories that resonate with young minds. Hear about the challenges she faced, including the vulnerability of sharing her first book and the valuable lessons gleaned from constructive criticism. Madisen also dives deep into her tallow business, explaining how a simple hobby turned into a thriving venture, serving not only her family but also her community.

In this episode, you’ll gain insights on:
- The transformative power of storytelling in children's literature
- How to turn a hobby into a successful business
- The importance of community and connections in entrepreneurship
- Tips for managing time effectively as a busy parent
- The healing benefits of tallow and its various uses

Madisen emphasizes that embracing feedback and learning from failure is crucial for growth, both personally and professionally. Her journey highlights the beauty of pursuing passions while nurturing a family, proving that you can indeed build a life that fulfills all your dreams.

Perfect for parents, aspiring writers, and entrepreneurs alike, this episode is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice. Tune in to learn how you can leverage your passions to create a legacy that lasts!

You can find Madisen's products here: https://www.facebook.com/madisenmayphotography

FOR MORE BRIDGE OUT AHEAD
Website: https://www.bridgeoutahead.net/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgeoutaheadpodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Bridge-Out-Ahead/

BUYING OR SELLING IN NORTHERN MINNESOTA?
Bridger Hopkins leads Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Start here: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/
Contact the team: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/contact/

ABOUT BRIDGE OUT AHEAD
Bridge Out Ahead is the podcast exploring what's under construction in life, business, and community. The detours, the rebuilds, and the vision still ahead. Bridger sits down with business owners, builders, and community leaders to unpack what it actually takes to build a life and work that lasts. If you're interested in business, leadership, personal growth, community impact, or navigating seasons of change, this show is for you.

CONNECT WITH BRIDGER
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HomesWithHopkins/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgerh/

SHOW CREDITS
This episode is brought to you by Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate. Getting you home.
Theme music: "We're Making Good Time" by Jed LaPlant

Tike Sutherland reveals how he transformed adversity into opportunity. Can a passion for sausage and fresh meats lead to a comeback story of recovery and success?

Meet Tike, the owner of Tike's Trophy Sausage and Fresh Meats in Cohasset, Minnesota, a beloved local brand that embodies the hunting culture and family traditions of the area. You’ll discover how Tike’s journey from battling alcoholism to building a thriving business is a testament to the power of second chances. In this episode, you’ll learn about the critical steps he took to reclaim his life, including the pivotal moment of finding support in Alcoholics Anonymous and the lessons he learned about resilience and community. One standout story illustrates this transformation: Tike shares the harrowing experience that led him to confront his demons, ultimately leading to his recovery and business success.

Understanding these lessons is crucial; without embracing change, growth, and recovery many miss out on the potential for a fulfilling life and career. Tike's story not only inspires but also serves as a guide for anyone seeking to navigate their own journey through hardship to success. This episode is essential listening if you’re looking for motivation to overcome your obstacles and build a life you love.

Find them here:
https://www.facebook.com/TikesTrophySausageFreshMeats

Timestamps:
(01:14) Meet Tike Sutherland - His journey begins
(05:30) The turning point: Finding help in AA
(10:40) Lessons learned: Overcoming addiction and starting a business
(15:05) The growth of Tike’s Trophy Sausage - From garage to retail
(20:45) Community and resilience - Key to success
(25:10) What’s next for Tike's Trophy Sausage?

FOR MORE BRIDGE OUT AHEAD
Website: https://www.bridgeoutahead.net/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgeoutaheadpodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Bridge-Out-Ahead/

BUYING OR SELLING IN NORTHERN MINNESOTA?
Bridger Hopkins leads Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Start here: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/
Contact the team: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/contact/

ABOUT BRIDGE OUT AHEAD
Bridge Out Ahead is the podcast exploring what's under construction in life, business, and community. Bridger sits down with business owners, builders, and community leaders to unpack what it actually takes to build a life and work that lasts. If you're interested in business, leadership, personal growth, community impact, or navigating seasons of change, this show is for you.

CONNECT WITH BRIDGER
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HomesWithHopkins/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgerh/
SHOW CREDITS
This episode is brought to you by Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate. Getting you home.
Theme music: "We're Making Good Time" by Jed LaPlant

Rapids Brewing Company is redefining community gathering spaces. Bill Martinetto, general manager of Rapids Brewing, shares how they transformed a blighted downtown area into a vibrant hub for social connection and high-quality craft beer. Discover how they navigated the challenges of starting a brewery just before the pandemic hit, emphasizing flexibility and community engagement.

Rapids Brewing has quickly become a staple in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, and Bill’s journey from college sketches of breweries to leading a successful establishment highlights the importance of passion and perseverance. You'll learn how quality, creativity, and community values are at the heart of their mission, creating memorable experiences for every guest. Bill shares a compelling story about the nostalgic significance of their building, an old theater, and how it resonates with the community, turning it into a place where memories are made.

Rapids Brewing Company: https://www.facebook.com/rapidsbrewingco

Understanding the evolution of Rapids Brewing is essential for any entrepreneur or community member looking to foster growth and resilience. This episode is a testament to how a shared vision can transform a community and create lasting impact. Perfect for anyone interested in business development, community building, or the craft beer scene.

Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction to Rapids Brewing Company
(05:30) Bill Martinetto’s journey from college to craft brewing
(12:15) The Surly Bill and its impact on Minnesota breweries
(18:00) Community focus and high-quality offerings
(23:45) Navigating challenges during the pandemic
(30:00) Creating memorable experiences for guests

FOR MORE BRIDGE OUT AHEAD
Website: https://www.bridgeoutahead.net/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgeoutaheadpodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Bridge-Out-Ahead/

BUYING OR SELLING IN NORTHERN MINNESOTA?
Bridger Hopkins leads Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Start here: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/
Contact the team: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/contact/

ABOUT BRIDGE OUT AHEAD
Bridge Out Ahead is the podcast exploring what's under construction in life, business, and community. The detours, the rebuilds, and the vision still ahead. Bridger sits down with business owners, builders, and community leaders to unpack what it actually takes to build a life and work that lasts. If you're interested in business, leadership, personal growth, community impact, or navigating seasons of change, this show is for you.

CONNECT WITH BRIDGER
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HomesWithHopkins/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgerh/

SHOW CREDITS
This episode is brought to you by Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate. Getting you home.
Theme music: "We're Making Good Time" by Jed LaPlant (Wild Horses)

Navigating the complexities of faith and finances can be daunting. In this episode, Bridger Hopkins sits down with Brad Nelson, founder and chief stewardship officer of Providence Financial Advisors, to discuss how to harmonize your financial decisions with your values.

Brad’s journey is a testament to resilience and purpose. He shares how his early life experiences shaped his commitment to helping others navigate their financial challenges. You’ll discover valuable insights, including the importance of building a strong financial foundation, strategies for effective client engagement, and the pivotal moments that led Brad to establish his financial advisory firm. One compelling story reveals how a simple conversation during a family trip ignited his passion for financial advising, illustrating the power of mentorship and seizing opportunities.

Understanding how to align faith with finances isn't just beneficial; it’s essential. Ignoring this intersection could mean missing out on opportunities for growth and fulfillment. This episode empowers you to take control of your financial journey, ensuring that your money aligns with your beliefs and ambitions.

Guest:

Brad Nelson is the founder and chief stewardship officer of Providence Financial Advisors, known for his commitment to integrating faith-based principles into financial planning.
Email: [email protected]

Phone: 218-326-0068

Website: www.providencefa.com

Social: https://www.facebook.com/ProvidenceFinancialAdvisors

FOR MORE BRIDGE OUT AHEAD

Website: https://www.bridgeoutahead.net/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgeoutaheadpodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Bridge-Out-Ahead/

BUYING OR SELLING IN NORTHERN MINNESOTA?

Bridger Hopkins leads Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Start here: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/

Contact the team: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/contact/

ABOUT BRIDGE OUT AHEAD

Bridge Out Ahead is the podcast exploring what's under construction in life, business, and community. The detours, the rebuilds, and the vision still ahead. Bridger sits down with business owners, builders, and community leaders to unpack what it actually takes to build a life and work that lasts. If you're interested in business, leadership, personal growth, community impact, or navigating seasons of change, this show is for you.

CONNECT WITH BRIDGER

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HomesWithHopkins/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgerh/

SHOW CREDITS

This episode is brought to you by Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate.

Theme music: "We're Making Good Time" by Jed LaPlant

Are you hesitant to take the leap into a new career? Kristina Hendrickson's journey from a self-doubting graphic designer to a confident photographer reveals the essential steps to overcoming fear and embracing change. Discover how she transitioned from a stay-at-home mom to a thriving business owner, all while learning the ropes of photography through mentorship and passion.

Kristina Hendrickson is a photographer with a background in graphic design, known for her unique ability to capture moments that serve a purpose. In this episode, you’ll discover the importance of mentorship in building your skills, how to leverage your existing talents to create a thriving business, and the necessity of stepping out of your comfort zone. Kristina shares her story of initially being reluctant to embrace photography and how a friend’s encouragement changed everything.

She emphasizes the value of asking for second chances during shoots and how humility can lead to better outcomes. You’ll learn about the Dunning-Kruger effect and how it applies to mastering a new skill. Kristina's relatable insights into the struggles of starting a business while maintaining personal expectations will resonate with anyone contemplating a career shift. By the end of this episode, you’ll feel inspired to take your next step, equipped with the knowledge that growth often comes from facing your fears.

Key moments:
(03:14) Discovering photography through mentorship
(06:22) The importance of planning with intention in photography
(09:44) Overcoming fears of starting a business
(11:15) The Dunning-Kruger effect in mastering new skills
(12:30) The value of asking for second chances in photography
(13:49) Transitioning from hobbyist to business owner
(14:20) How continuous learning fuels creativity

FOR MORE BRIDGE OUT AHEAD
Website: https://www.bridgeoutahead.net/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgeoutaheadpodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Bridge-Out-Ahead/

BUYING OR SELLING IN NORTHERN MINNESOTA? Bridger Hopkins leads Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota.
Start here: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/
Contact the team: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/contact/

ABOUT BRIDGE OUT AHEAD Bridge Out Ahead is the podcast exploring what's under construction in life, business, and community. The detours, the rebuilds, and the vision still ahead. Bridger sits down with business owners, builders, and community leaders to unpack what it actually takes to build a life and work that lasts. If you're interested in business, leadership, personal growth, community impact, or navigating seasons of change, this show is for you.

CONNECT WITH BRIDGER
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HomesWithHopkins/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgerh/

SHOW CREDITS This episode is brought to you by Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate. Getting you home. Theme music: "We're Making Good Time" by Jed LaPlant

Unlock the secrets to scaling success in real estate! Parker Pemberton, owner of Pemberton Real Estate, shares how he transformed a high-producing team into a billion-dollar brokerage. If you’re in the real estate industry or aspiring to break into it, this episode offers invaluable insights on growth strategies and overcoming failures.

Parker’s journey began in 2016, starting as a new agent with a daunting list of dead leads. Fast forward to today, and he leads nearly 300 agents across Minnesota, achieving over a billion dollars in sales annually. You’ll discover how Parker’s relentless work ethic, lessons from failures, and innovative lead conversion tactics propelled his business to the top. He emphasizes the importance of getting off the "mower" to focus on high-value tasks, a game-changing lesson that every entrepreneur needs to hear.

In this episode, Parker dives into:
- The pivotal moment that shifted his perspective on success and failure.
- How he turned dead leads into active clients by re-engaging with them creatively.
- The key strategies he used to build a personal brand that resonates in a crowded market.
- The importance of community events and networking in building lasting relationships.
- Why embracing change and learning from setbacks is essential for growth.

Understanding these principles could be the difference between stagnation and explosive growth in your career. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn from Parker’s firsthand experiences in real estate!

FOR MORE BRIDGE OUT AHEAD
Website: https://www.bridgeoutahead.net/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgeoutaheadpodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Bridge-Out-Ahead/

BUYING OR SELLING IN NORTHERN MINNESOTA?
Bridger Hopkins leads Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Start here: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/
Contact the team: https://bridgeoutahead.northernmnre.com/contact/

ABOUT BRIDGE OUT AHEAD
Bridge Out Ahead is the podcast exploring what's under construction in life, business, and community. The detours, the rebuilds, and the vision still ahead. Bridger sits down with business owners, builders, and community leaders to unpack what it actually takes to build a life and work that lasts. If you're interested in business, leadership, personal growth, community impact, or navigating seasons of change, this show is for you.

CONNECT WITH BRIDGER
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HomesWithHopkins/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgerh/

SHOW CREDITS
This episode is brought to you by Bridge Out Ahead Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton Real Estate. Getting you home.
Theme music: "We're Making Good Time" by Jed LaPlant