Jason Benson, Executive Director, Metro Flood Diversion Authority; Tony Grindberg, Cass County Commissioner, Metro Flood Diversion Authority Board Chair.The FM Area Diversion is the largest infrastructure project in our region’s history, designed to protect more than 260,000 people from catastrophic flooding. In this episode, Metro Flood Diversion Authority leaders join the conversation to share how this once-in-a-generation project is being built, and why it matters.From the devastating floods of 1997 and 2009 to today’s groundbreaking engineering and innovative public-private partnerships, the discussion explores the scale of the project and the vision behind it. Jason and Tony walk through the technical feats of the 30-mile diversion channel, the financial model that makes it possible, and the lasting benefits for safety, housing, business, and economic growth.Listeners will also hear about the challenges that remain, the workforce needed to get the job done, and what comes next as the Fargo-Moorhead region takes bold steps toward a more resilient future.

Featuring Joe Raso, President and CEO, Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation and Shannon Full, President and CEO, The Chamber.This episode of The Chamber Link dives into Innovate28, a bold and collaborative plan designed to accelerate the region’s workforce, business growth, and public policy progress by 2029.From ambitious goals like growing the labor force by 12,000 individuals and adding a billion dollars in annual regional sales, to behind-the-scenes wins such as attracting Amazon’s distribution center, this discussion explores the strategies and partnerships driving real change. Topics include major workforce efforts, business growth and vitality, public policy influence, civic engagement and the importance of cross-sector collaboration in keeping the region competitive nationwide.Whether you are a local leader, business owner or simply curious about the future of our region, this episode offers insight, inspiration and a clear roadmap for growth.

Featuring Dilworth Mayor Chad Olson and Peyton Mastera, City Administrator, City of Dilworth.This episode explores the growth and future of Dilworth, Minnesota, from a new community center and expanding residential neighborhoods to the redevelopment of the rail district and the transformation of Highway 10. Strategic planning, strong partnerships, and a commitment to honoring the city’s history are helping shape one of the region’s most dynamic small cities.The conversation blends vision, history, and practical action, reflecting the belief that a community’s success comes from consistent care and investment. For years, Dilworth has embraced opportunities to create a more connected and vibrant place to live, work and visit, showing how steady attention to the right details can help a city thrive.Whether you are a Dilworth resident, a regional leader, or simply curious about smart city growth, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and a clear look at what it takes to nurture lasting progress.

Featuring Joe Sandin, President and Founder, OnSharp; and Kelly Mortensen, Founder, Digital Plains.In this episode, the group discusses the opportunities and risks that artificial intelligence presents for today’s businesses, covering everything from AI as a powerful productivity tool to the growing cybersecurity threats that too many companies overlook.Listeners will gain insight into why Kelly’s mantra, “Your Business Will Get Hacked,” is a reality leaders must prepare for, as well as practical strategies for safeguarding data and leveraging AI responsibly. Joe also shares valuable perspectives as the president and founder of OnSharp, offering a firsthand look at how AI is transforming client portals, user experiences, and strategies for businesses of all sizes. The conversation also highlights the upcoming Midwest Tech Summit and what business leaders should understand about AI before falling behind.This episode offers a clear-eyed look at the future of technology, combining caution with optimism and equipping you with strategies to stay ahead.

Featuring Moorhead Mayor Shelly Carlson; Derrick LaPoint, Downtown Moorhead Inc.; and Stacia Sytsma, Moorhead Business Association.This episode explores Moorhead’s transformation, from billion-dollar investments in sustainable aviation fuel to the reimagining of the downtown mall as a vibrant, mixed-use community space. The conversation highlights the city’s five-year vision for revitalization, housing solutions, major infrastructure projects like the long-awaited underpass, and tax incentives driving growth. Listeners will also hear how partnerships between the city, businesses and the community are positioning Moorhead as one of Minnesota’s emerging destinations, plus a preview of a new networking series for nonprofits launching this fall.

Featuring N.D. Senator Kristin Roers; Minn. Representative Jim Joy; and Cale Dunwoody, The Chamber.This episode explores the 2025 legislative sessions in Minnesota and North Dakota, with the guests unpacking key issues shaping our region, from property tax relief and paid family leave mandates to water infrastructure projects, workforce strategies and the broader economic implications for businesses on both sides of the river. Senator Roers shares her perspective on North Dakota’s Republican supermajority and the state’s focus on tax reform, while Rep. Joy provides insight into Minnesota’s legislature and what certain outcomes mean for Clay County’s competitiveness. Cale connects these discussions to The Chamber’s public policy work, highlighting how state-level policy decisions impact local business growth and community development.

Featuring Shawn Dobberstein, Executive Director of the Fargo Airport Authority; Dr. Dean Bresciani, Board Member, Fargo Airport Authority.This episode takes a closer look at one of Fargo’s transformative infrastructure projects: the expansion of Hector International Airport. From its century-long legacy to the ambitious plans for the future, we explore why this investment is critical for the region’s growth.Learn what’s driving the expansion, how it will enhance the traveler experience, and what it means for businesses, workforce development and the region’s competitiveness on a national scale.With insights from airport leadership and community partners, this conversation highlights how Hector International Airport is positioning Fargo-Moorhead for the future.

Featuring Charley Johnson, Visit Fargo-Moorhead; Kent Kolstad, Livewire; and Shannon Full, The Chamber.

When designed with intention, a convention center becomes a launchpad for economic transformation. In this episode, we sit down with Charley Johnson, Shannon Full, and Kent Kolstad to discuss what a $40 million investment in a new Fargo facility could mean for business growth, tourism, talent, and the region’s long-term competitiveness.From site selection and stakeholder input to economic ripple effects and event infrastructure, this conversation unpacks how the right project at the right time can shape a city’s future.

In this episode, we explore the powerful impact of small businesses on the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo community with three dynamic local business leaders. Host Tyler Fischbach kicks things off with insights from a U.S. Chamber of Commerce Small Business report before diving into a conversation with an incredible trio of guests: Jack Yakowicz, Director of Operations at AdShark; Sarah West, Founder of Light Consulting & Coaching and the 2025 Small Business of the Year winner; and Abby Styf, Director of Member Engagement at The Chamber.From ChamberChoice awards to innovative business strategies, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiring stories. Discover how small businesses fuel nearly half of the U.S. economy, hear how Jack's Chamber experience helped lead him down his path in life, and learn how Sarah is revolutionizing finance for her clients.Abby also shares her perspective on building meaningful connections, why networking is a key to success, and how anyone can engage with the local business community without feeling overwhelmed.Whether you're a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or just someone interested in the heartbeat of the local economy, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration for all.

Featuring Colin Tsolis, Bobcat Company; Donna Heck, The Chamber; and Londa Hager, AM 1100 The Flag.

In this heartwarming and high-energy episode, host Tyler recaps the Chamber’s Midwest Ag Summit before diving into a powerful conversation on community, connection, and workforce with guests from Fargo-Moorhead’s Community Concierge Program.

You’ll hear directly from Colin Tsolis of Bobcat Company, who shares his inspiring relocation story from Detroit to Fargo—and how a thoughtful gift, a personalized tour, and a few friendly faces made all the difference. Concierge strategist Donna Heck and local “Icebreaker” Londa Hager reveal how the Chamber helps newcomers fall in love with the FM area, one handshake and hobby at a time.

It’s a must-listen for employers, HR leaders, and anyone curious about how small gestures can drive big impact in workforce recruitment and retention.