Venture Boldly

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Jen Stein, the inspiring 2024 Discover Kalispell Chamber Educator of the Year, shares her journey from a school-loving child to a pioneering elementary school principal. Her personal experiences have deeply influenced her leadership style, making her a prominent advocate for inclusive education. Jen reveals her commitment to creating supportive environments where every student feels cherished and valued, underlining the power of community and teamwork in fostering a sense of belonging among students and educators alike.

Explore the future of education with us as Jen delves into the world of personalized and competency-based learning. She discusses the shift toward empowering students to take the reins of their own learning experiences, embracing mistakes as steppingstones to growth. At Edgerton Elementary, the focus is on nurturing a culture of exploration and innovation, ensuring that students, families, and staff flourish together. Celebrate with us the dedication and visionary efforts that Jen and her team bring to the table, setting the stage for a future where education continuously evolves and adapts to meet the needs of every learner.

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© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800  |  [email protected]

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Sam Torgerson's inspiring journey from kennel attendant to general manager and part owner of a board and train facility is nothing short of remarkable. We sat down with Sam, the Discover Kalispell Chamber's 2024 Rising Star Award winner, to uncover how her passion for animals and relentless dedication has propelled her into a leading role in animal care. Sam opens up about her family's involvement in the business and the importance of recognizing animal care as a meaningful career path.

Discover the essential role of Three Dog Ranch in nurturing the bond between dogs and their owners. . We discuss how Three Dog Ranch prioritizes trust and transparency so that pet owners can rest assured that their four-legged companions are in good hands at either of their two Flathead locations (one in Whitefish and a new board/train facility in Creston). With a commitment to building personal relationships with clients, the facility treats pets and their owners like family. For more details, listeners are encouraged to explore their website, 3dogranch.com.

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© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800  |  [email protected]

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Whitefish Community Foundation, recently celebrated as the 2024 Kalispell Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit of the Year, is leading the way in giving back to the Flathead Valley community.  Join us as we unlock the secrets behind their  success, with insights from Alan Davis, the foundation's President and CEO. Having transitioned from the Whitefish Legacy Partners to leading this influential organization, Alan shares how his unique perspective as a former grant applicant has shaped the foundation's community-driven mission. Learn how the 2024 Great Fish Community Challenge shattered records, pulling in $6.68 million for 80 local nonprofits, and explore the strategic efforts to address critical issues like youth homelessness through innovative initiatives such as the Kids Fund.

Our conversation highlights how the foundation's ripple effect is transforming lives across Flathead Valley.  With assets surpassing $65 million and over $13.7 million granted in the past year alone, the foundation is not just a local powerhouse but a beacon of collaboration and unity. As the holiday season draws near, Alan offers thoughtful guidance on aligning charitable giving with personal values for maximum impact. Tune in to celebrate the foundation's achievements and to learn their secrets to fundraising success.

Whitefish Community Foundation

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© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800  |  [email protected]

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Imagine blending the rich history of community banking with the fast-paced world of technology. That's exactly what AJ King, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Three Rivers Bank of Montana, is doing, and he’s sharing his insights on Venture Boldly. Celebrating their recent accolade as the Discover Kalispell Chamber's 2024 Large Business of the Year, AJ reflects on the enduring influence of his father, Jack King, and how those foundational values of kindness and community involvement continue to steer the bank toward success. Despite the digital age, Three Rivers Bank stands firm in its commitment to personalized service and local decision-making, ensuring they remain a trusted, relationship-driven institution. Join us as AJ takes us through the bank's journey since 1974, highlighting the synergy between old-fashioned customer service and modern technological advancements.

With thoughtful reflections and valuable business advice, AJ offers a roadmap for other businesses aiming for similar success. Tune in for an episode packed with lessons on leadership, community connection, and the art of balancing tradition with innovation.

Links:
Three Rivers Bank of Montana
Highlander Track Club
Lemonade Day Flathead
Whitefish Community Foundation
Samaritan House
Flathead Food Bank
Flathead Community Land Trust

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© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800  |  [email protected]

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Discover the transformative journey of Sue Corrigan, the remarkable 2024 recipient of the Discover Kalispell Chamber Community Spirit Award. From a shy child to a dedicated community leader, Sue shares her inspiring path with us, including her impact as a special needs teacher and her involvement with organizations like the Glacier Conservancy and the Montana State School Board Association. Moving to Kalispell in 1986, initially due to her husband's career, Sue found her calling in education through a serendipitous encounter. Her story is a testament to the power of passion and connection in building vibrant communities.

Join our conversation as we explore the dynamic role of school board trustees and the challenges they face, from securing resources to implementing innovative educational models. Sue sheds light on the shift toward personalized, competency-based education and the crucial role of community backing in sustaining programs like the VOAG Center and IB Program amid financial constraints. With her insights into legislative advocacy for school funding and mentoring future leaders, Sue offers a blueprint for making meaningful contributions to our neighborhoods. Celebrate her legacy and gain inspiration for your path to community impact.

The Community Spirit Award is sponsored by Glacier Bank. 

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© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800  |  [email protected]

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Join us as we meet with Mireille Bierens, the owner of Mountain Physical Therapy and Fitness Center and the 2024 Small Business of the Year Award winner.  Mireille shares her story of her move from the Netherlands to the Flathead and career journey that lead her to become the owner of her physical therapy business.  Gain insights into how Mireille's unique blend of healthcare marketing and real estate expertise play a pivotal role in her success. Her story is one of resilience and passion, highlighting the importance of a supportive company culture and the vital contributions of small businesses to local economies.

We discuss the significance of community involvement and education in building a thriving business.  We also dive into the essence of leadership, advocating for a team-oriented approach that fosters trust and growth, and what it takes to become a successful entrepreneur.

Mountain Physical Therapy & Fitness Center: HOME | Kalispell, Montana | Mountain Physical Therapy

The Small/Medium Business of the Year Award is sponsored by Glacier Bank. 

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© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800  |  [email protected]

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Discover the remarkable journey of Dan Dickman, the 2024 Flathead Legacy Award winner, whose path to nursing began with an unexpected dare and whose life took a transformative turn after a severe accident. Dan's story is a testament to the power of empathy and leadership.  Join us as Dan reflects on his four-decade-long career in nursing, including 30 impactful years with the Flathead County Health Department, and his steadfast commitment to community service. From his military service in the 1960s to volunteering with organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters and the ASSIST program, Dan exemplifies a life dedicated to compassion and making a difference. 

In honoring Dan's lifetime of service, we delve into the impact he has made in the Flathead Valley. His tireless devotion to community causes and his servant's heart have left an indelible mark on countless lives. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to Dan's legacy and an invitation to our listeners to reflect on the power of serving others. 

The Flathead Legacy Award is sponsored by Logan Health. 

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© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800  |  [email protected]

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The semiconductor industry has a long history in Kalispell, thanks to the entrepreneurial Ray Thompson, who founded Semitool which was acquired by Applied Materials in 2010.  Our special guest, Brian Aegerter, General Manager of Kalispell Applied Materials, shares the how the bold move to establish a semiconductor industry in the Flathead has created a thriving high-tech sector and opened doors for future growth opportunities.   Brian captivates us with stories of his personal experiences and sheds light on the industry’s substantial economic impact on Montana. 

Brian also reveals the unique ways Applied Materials intersects global innovation with local community values. From the Applied Materials Charitable Foundation to their impactful hiring strategies, learn how the company invests in the community and prepares the next generation for tech careers. Join us for this episode as we explore the innovative landscape at Applied Materials and bright economic future for Montana.

Applied Materials: Applied Materials

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© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800  |  [email protected]

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Discover how Montana is blazing a trail in tech innovation with the dynamic Headwaters Tech Hub (HTH). We sit down with Dr. Tim VanReken, the visionary Executive Director and Regional Innovation Officer of the HTH. We uncover the strategic impact of the Chips and Science Act and a transformative $41 million boost from the US Department of Commerce, setting Montana on a path to become a leader in smart photonic sensing systems. From Bozeman to the Flathead Valley, learn how this initiative is poised to reshape the state’s tech industry by minimizing business hurdles and invigorating manufacturing. This ambitious movement not only promises economic growth but aims to position Montana at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies with critical applications across national defense and disaster prevention.

Tim shares a vision for the Headwaters Tech Hub, with plans to create up to 25,000 jobs in the next ten years. These roles span engineering, research, and manufacturing, aiming to spread opportunity across the state. We delve into the pivotal role of STEM education for K-12 students and how parental guidance can inspire the next generation to seize these opportunities.  Tune in for a compelling conversation about the future of Montana's tech landscape.

Home | Headwaters Tech Hub
LinkedIn: Tim VanReken
The Headwaters Tech Hub – Smart Photonic Sensing - Montana Chamber of Commerce

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© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800  |  [email protected]

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Join us for a conversation with Matt Jensen, the new superintendent of Kalispell Public Schools, as he shares his vision for the district. You'll discover how Matt's focus on personalized competency-based education aims to empower students and enhance learning outcomes. Despite grappling with budget issues and the complexities of school funding, his enthusiasm for the progress being made and the commitment of the staff shines through.

Curious about how rising housing costs are affecting local school-age populations and educational models? We bring you insights from the long-range facility planning study, revealing demographic projections and school growth trends in the Flathead Valley. Hear about the innovative approaches of Pace Academy and Rising Wolf Charter schools, which offer flexible scheduling and work-based learning opportunities. 

The cost of living poses significant challenges for both educators and the broader community in the Flathead Valley. Matt emphasizes the urgent need to improve teacher salaries and benefits to attract and retain quality educators. We dive into the critical role community support plays in school funding and the importance of effective communication about funding mechanisms like levies and bonds. Through personal anecdotes and an exciting initiative involving community visits to schools, we highlight the vital need for community engagement to ensure sustainable educational funding. Tune in to this episode for a comprehensive overview of the future of Kalispell Public Schools and the collaborative efforts needed to support it.

Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber.
© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800  |  [email protected]