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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

Cheri Haug, owner of Gossamer Wings, joins to share her journey. It went from practicing law to following her creative passions, which Haug to jewelry making and eventually aromatherapy. Haug discusses her business evolution — from craft shows to opening a bead store, and now, a retail shop at the Collective on Main Street in downtown La Crosse. Haug also details her unique service of custom fragrance blending and the various experiences offered in her studio. Tune in to hear about her creative process, patenting her Easy Bracelet tool, and her passion for helping people create personalized fragrances. 00:00 Introduction to BizCast and Guest Sherri Haug 00:20 Sherri's Journey from Law to Jewelry Making 02:47 Building a Successful Jewelry Business 05:28 Transition to Aromatherapy and COVID Impact 06:50 Opening a Retail Store and Joining the Collective 09:06 Custom Perfume Blending Experience 21:45 The Art of Perfume Blending 22:44 Creating Custom Fragrances 24:00 Selling and Marketing Perfumes 25:06 Inspiration Behind Unique Scents 28:24 The Popularity of Milkweed Fragrance 32:18 The Easy Bracelet Patent 36:43 Future Plans for Gossamer Wings 38:41 The Emotional Connection of Fragrances

A bit of a switcheroo, as Vicki is the guest and Rick Solem the host, for a La Crosse Talk segment on WIZM. We discuss my role as interim director and consultant on the Western Workforce Development Board, what the development board does and some of the challenges its facing, including a changing job market and the rapid implementation of A.I. 

Jeff LeClaire, President of the Insurance Center (TIC) located in Onalaska joins. Jeff discusses the significant evolution of the company, which started in 1966, and its current focus on serving individuals and companies facing catastrophic health issues and insurance claims. Highlighting TIC's structural changes, mission of perpetual growth, and culture rooted in servant leadership, Jeff shares insights on balancing ethical sales with proactive solutions, navigating a competitive industry, and maintaining high retention through a strong community presence and continuous improvement. He also opens up about his personal journey in leadership, the company's upcoming expansion, and the importance of being prepared to support clients during their most challenging times. 00:00 Introduction to Biz Cast Greater Lacrosse 00:39 History and Evolution of The Insurance Center 01:27 Changes in the Insurance Industry 06:04 Jeff LeClaire's Personal Journey 09:11 Leadership and Culture at The Insurance Center 15:56 Conflict Resolution and Healthy Communication 20:38 Transforming Insurance: From Transactional to Relational 22:05 Three Uniques: Transparency, Development, and Proactive Solutions 25:09 Navigating Insurance Costs and Inflation 28:10 The Role of Insurance in Catastrophic Events 36:17 Expanding the Insurance Center: Growth and Vision 41:15 Passion and Preparedness in the Insurance Industry

Katie Walters of Walt's Restaurant and Tavern, and Sean McManus of Savory Creations join to discuss the ins and outs of restaurant etiquette and the elements that contribute to exceptional service. They cover topics such as the importance of communication, the role of ambiance, handling wait times, ensuring consistency in the kitchen, and tips for customers to improve their dining experience. 00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Etiquette 00:22 Meet the Experts: Katie Walters and Sean McManus 01:19 The Customer Experience: From Entry to Seating 03:42 Managing Wait Times and Communication 06:38 Timing the Meal: The Art of Service 11:52 Consistency in the Kitchen: Behind the Scenes 15:58 Encouraging Experimentation and Handling Allergies 23:55 Tipping Etiquette and Payment Challenges 31:24 Final Thoughts and Advice for Diners

Mike Kreiling, owner of multiple Express Employment Professionals franchises, joins. We discuss the shifting dynamics in employment, including wage inflation and the importance of leadership skills. Kreiling, who lives in La Crosse with his family, helps connect people with jobs at Express Employment Professionals from Winona to Eau Claire and beyond. Kreiling shares insights from his personal journey, including his unexpected entry into the staffing industry, the impact of his father's sudden passing and his mission to help others through writing and mentoring. Additionally, Kreiling highlights an upcoming educational session focused on leading teams through economic uncertainty.

This week, a bit of a highlight reel from past guests. At the end of each episode, we ask, "What makes you passionate about what you do?" Here are their answers.

Sometimes starting a business begins by looking at your children. For Lane and Shannon Peters, the husband-wife team behind Hallmark Homecare, they wanted to provide a learning experience for their children and give back to their community.  The franchise provides caregiver services to seniors, as the two discuss their motivations, including personal family experiences and a desire to teach their children about entrepreneurship.  They explain the franchising process, the advantages of their business model and the importance of providing customized care.  We also highlight the growing need for homecare services in rural areas and the significant impact Hallmark Homecare aims to have on the community.

Estina Hanes’s La Crosse roots run deep.  Despite being a makeup artist at Fashion Week in New York or glamming up socialites in California, La Crosse keeps calling her back.  This Central High School graduate moved away, came back, got recruited to do makeup for the stars, and now flies back to La Crosse when she is done.  On July 8, Hanes opens E-Spa and TLYN Studios in The Village — which is where her grandpa had his construction business and, of course, next to her alma mater. She’s surrounded by the comforts of home. She shares her story of being a single mom and becoming an inspiration, as she focuses and achieves her dreams.  She’s traveled a rough road to get here but faces it with positivity — because, after all, apparently we all have cows for pets. Just ask a socialite.

Colin Luz, a versatile entrepreneur with multiple business ventures, including Copperhead Carts, Holiday Heroes Lights and a new venture called Stoneworks Sign & Monuments, joins. Luz shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey, which began in high school and evolved through various business ventures — from a moving company to custom golf carts and holiday lighting services. Emphasizing the importance of identifying market demand and forming strong partnerships, Luz discusses his approach to starting and managing businesses. He also highlights his commitment to community service, such as providing free moving services for domestic violence victims and organizing fundraisers. Despite his busy schedule, Luz, a new father, manages to balance his professional ambitions with a supportive family life, driven by his passion for creating value in his community.

He caters. He consults. He offers boutique cooking classes. And he joins the show this week. Shawn McManus, owner of Savory Creations. We talk about how Shawn’s love of family gatherings with food, prepared by his grandma and mother, sparked his culinary passion. Shawn’s dietary consulting brought him from California to Gundersen in La Crosse, where he made the connections to pursue the dream of owning a boutique cooking school. Listen to how his initial path has changed, how he got into consulting, and is now influencing menus throughout the Coulee Region.

Sarah Fecht, owner of Best Self Leadership, joins to discuss her approach to leadership coaching, the importance of recognizing individual strengths, and the value of emotional intelligence in leadership. Sarah shares insights from her experience in Human Resources and her transition to launching her own business. We also cover strategies for creating high-performing teams and fostering trust within organizations..

Katie Walters co-owner of Walt's Restaurant and Tavern in Bangor with her husband, Ryan join to talk about launching their new menu June 1 to compliment their expanded craft beer selection, wine selection, and cocktail offerings. Walters also mentions the balance between traditional Wisconsin menu items and new, elevated dishes. Shawn McManus, a consultant, helped in updating the menu to match their vision and target demographic. We discuss how they wish to attract a diverse customer base and creating a unique dining experience. Additionally, there is a focus on the importance of the menu in making the restaurant a destination. 

We continue our conversation with Cate Hollowitsch, the chief marker for Nesnah Ventures in La Crosse, discussing how her expertise became a challenge to do a TED Talk, focusing on the theme of self preservation. It’s a fascinating look behind the scenes of what it takes to get on the stage and speak. She provides her journey into speaking, shares insights into the TED Talk application process, the importance of unique ideas, and explores the concept of self-sabotage in corporate settings.

Cate Hollowitsch, marketing chief for Nesnah Ventures in La Crosse, joins to talk about how Nesnah turned its sale of Kwik Trip shares, decades ago, into an acquisition and management company. Nesnah has more than 200 employees and a diverse portfolio of companies. It is constantly looking at growing more. Listen and learn about this local hidden gem.

Dan Markussen joins the show to talk about sitting next to "that guy" on an airplane. Markussen is a "million miler," a frequent flier, and we talk airline etiquette — taking your shoes off, reclining your seat, who gets the window and other "do's and don'ts."

Understanding debt, running a business, cell phone etiquette and even shaking hands — these are all skills needed to be successful in life. Junior Achievement of Wisconsin is teaching these skills in our schools with help from more than 120 volunteers.  Regional Director Susan Peterson joins to discuss the organization, its impact on students from elementary to college age, the evolution of their programs, partnerships with businesses, and the importance of financial literacy education. She also highlights a May 2 event at UW-La Crosse, and the group is always looking for volunteers. For more info check it out at Coulee.JA.org.

From fitness to guiding small businesses, powered by women, Stephanie Ross, co-owner of Sister Circle, joins. Ross is an entrepreneur, community leader and a realtor. She and her sister, Cathryn, run Sister Circle, which helps guide and coach women small business owners. We explore Ross’ entrepreneurial ventures, challenges faced, growth and transition into focusing on business education and coaching through the Sister Circle community. We talk about her passion for building communities, collaboration over competition, and creating a positive impact in the business world.

Being vulnerable is opening doors for many of our local, largest business employers with Jim Naleid’s group Epic 21 — which stands for Executive Peers in Conference: 21st Century Leadership. In this episode, Jim talks about his journey from financial advising to a retirement career coaching this group of leaders. The group has championed Junior Achievement and now brings speakers in for the greater community. Learn more and do some self-reflecting on your own journey — how you are growing, and what you need to focus on leading, as you listen.

Shobi Zietlow, owner of Referral Staffing Solutions, joins to share her journey of entrepreneurship — starting from humble origins to building her business. Zietlow discusses her upbringing, challenges in managing Referral Staffing, seeking professional development programs and her commitment to giving back to the community. Zietlow also talks of rebranding, celebrating 10 years in business, and her passion for making impactful connections between job seekers and employers.

Joe Ruskey, the owner of Dependable Solutions, an IT company, joins to discuss the latest protections you should have in place for your data. While you think it may not be vulnerable or valuable, imagine what you may have to pay if your photos, health information, or passwords get held hostage. Ruskey talks about how his business has grown, after moving from Chicago to Prairie du Chien, then expanding into La Crosse and now Madison — all by word of mouth. He describes the current environment as the Wild Wild West. The discussion revolves around the growth trajectory of his company, his emphasis on cybersecurity, partnerships, AI, automation, hiring, and the personal journey of realizing the need to delegate. Ruskey also shares his charity work through Rotary service and his goals for the future.

A high school passion for dance has turned into a career for West Salem native, Michelle Malone. When she figured out the marketing business she started wasn't enough, Malone opened I&E Dance Studio in La Crosse six months later. Now she's running both this studio where adults can get back into dance or take lessons for the first time, plus Collective Marketing. She joins to talk about the connections she sees in people -- and herself -- with dance, plus the hard work it takes running two businesses.

Joe Katchever, owner, brewmaster, and founder of Pearl Street Brewery in La Crosse joins, as they're about to celebrate 25 years in business with the Feb. 17 Winter Ball. We discuss Katchever's Pearl Street Brewery journey — from its inception in Colorado to the basement of the Bodega and now at its current location. Katchever also discusses the challenges he faced to get here, the brewery's events, their community involvement and the company's expansion into things like hard ciders and seltzers. Katchever also explains the importance of the taproom to the business model and emphasizes his passion for brewing beer.

Artificial Intelligence is all the buzz, as nearly every software takes on an A.I. component. Schools are discussing how to detect if a student or the computer wrote a paper. Non-artists have A.I. creating pictures they describe. Even podcasts like this one uses A.I. to remove “ums” and “ahs.” And everyone is worried, ‘Will I be replaced by A.I.?’ So, we talked with local A.I. expert Rodney Holum, with Coulee Tech. We discuss how, if you’re not embracing A.I., you will be left behind. We also talk about how A.I. is integrated into everyday business operations and the various A.I. models — their uses, potential ethical issues and how A.I. will impact the workforce in the future. Holum also discusses his book on A.I., and the workshops conducted that aim to make A.I. more approachable and useful for businesses. If you want to attend Holum’s classes on A.I., check out the Coulee Tech website.

Oh look, someone is teaching public speaking — a lot of people's No. 1 worst fear. But Jon Reiner isn't just a public speaking coach, he's also a pastor, and wears both hats proudly. On Sundays, you may listen to him at First Free Church in Onalaska. Other days, he’s traveling the world, teaching others how to create a story around their product. Here, he talks of how a pastor became a sought-after public speaking coach and previews his event May 23-24 at the Charmant to share his gift with the Greater La Crosse area. We also discuss Reiner's technique of helping people gain confidence to speak publicly, and how to tell a story.

It was a social media buzz for companies last year when more than 700 high school students came to an event called Build My Future, at the La Crosse Area Builders Association, promoting all jobs in the trades — not just construction. Every booth was interactive — from removing tires to operating a backhoe. Joining the podcast to preview this year’s Build My Future event are Andy Olson of River City Truck & Trailer, Tena Bailey with the La Crosse Area Builders Association, and Adam Kirschner with Energy Line International. The three talked how Build My Future aims to introduce students to various trades and careers, building off the success from last year, the importance of hands-on activities for students, and the need for exhibitors and sponsors for the upcoming event. They also emphasize the value of apprenticeships, the different pathways available in the trades, and the benefits of participating in the event for both students and businesses.

Tom Miskowski, owner of Kitchen Solvers — a kitchen remodeling company — joins the show. We discuss his journey from being a corporate CEO to becoming a franchise owner and now a cabinetmaker. He talks about the benefits of owning a franchise and how Kitchen Solvers helps franchisees with systems and support. Tom also explains the services offered by Kitchen Solvers of La Crosse, such as kitchen remodeling and cabinet refacing. We touch on topics like digital marketing, vendor relationships, and Miskowski's background in manufacturing. We conclude with Miskowski's vision for Kitchen Solvers and his commitment to ensuring customer satisfaction and franchisee success.

Phanat Lor joins to discuss her journey as a second language teacher, who started her own business called Crafted Copy.  She offers copywriting and resume writing services. We talk about how Phanat ventured into writing and how she helps individuals identify their skills and apply them to their resumes. We also discuss the importance of confidence, communication, and continuous learning in the job search process.

Each Friday, for nearly a year now, you’ve heard BizCast talk to local leaders. And, if you reached the end of each podcast, you'll know there's a common closer question: "What makes you passionate about what you do?" As we enter the time of New Year's Resolutions, here are some ideas to help you find your passion in 2024 — a compilation of answers to that question.

Paul Borsheim, one of the owners of Borton Construction, joins to talk about building industry challenges, the keys to their growth and having a philosophical mindset, including the rewards of coaching freshmen boys basketball. Borsheim got his start working for one construction company, which led to breaking off into Borton Construction. We also discuss how he’s learned to use development projects to keep employees working in winter. Plus, how construction is happening faster, and where he predicts construction is going.

One industry not having trouble growing is solar energy. Olson Solar Energy began in 2017 when two brothers from Holmen heard solar panel installation was a hot industry. Six year later they have gone from zero to 60 employees. Olson consultant Keith Molzahn joins to talk about the benefits and incentives of solar panels, the technological advancements in the field, how solar panels work, the financial aspects of investing in solar energy, the maintenance involved, and the growth of Olson Solar Energy as a company.

What began as a casual way to improve baseball and softball players during the pandemic has become a regional destination.Garage Ball just reopened in its new Highway Z location on Brice Prairie. Owner Brian Meeter joins to talk about how interest in the indoor batting cages took off, demand grew for other services and how they’re ensuring this facility stays in demand.

Many businesses hit a point where they need to grow. They’ve either saved up for years, asked friends and relatives to help, or they got bank funding. What banks can't finance, a company out of Minneapolis called Hill Capital just might. That's their specialty. Come learn how business can get connected and thrive with Hill Capital owner Patrick Donahue.

Phil Humphrey, the owner of 608 Brewing Company in La Crosse joins to discuss how they started, have grown and the effects of the pandemic, plus the challenges of operating in the ever-evolving craft beer industry. Humphrey also discusses the exciting future of the company, including the plan to open a new location in Holmen, as well as how proposed brewing laws in Wisconsin could affect the business.

Pepsi is celebrating 125 years as a beverage company. Along with that, Gillette Pepsi has been alongside Pepsi for more than 80 years. While delivering product to stores remains the same, the amount of products they now carry means soda is a small fraction. Megan Howard, Vice President of Human Resources talks how they are working extra hard to keep their people happy.

What causes someone to leave most of her possessions in California and move back home to La Crosse? Faith, literally. Faith Anderson dreamed of owning a cafe. She moved home with no plan but, with a great friend, three months later, she finds herself co-owner and manager of Bluebird Bakery & Cafe. Listen to how the company grew to the point of adding a drive through in Onalaska and how a group of owners comes to agreement on what’s next.

Brian Meeter has only been with the La Crescent Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism for six months, but he already knows what makes it special. The new executive director joins to talk about life on the Minnesota side of the Mississippi River. Meeter discusses the campaign La Crescent is launching to draw in more people and promoting walkability to restaurants, new businesses starting up, attracting bike races and much more.

Talking to Judson Steinback, co-owner of Coulee Region Ecoscapes, reveals a very deep individual — from his Waldorf teaching days to a very sick child to being a musician to knowing native plants, how they grow, and how to minimize harm through landscaping. Oh, and he’s also a world-record canoeist, and don’t get him talking about fishing. In this podcast you’ll learn how to handle plants, grass and water in your yard, as well as what it was like to spend more than two weeks in a canoe with three other guys, breaking the record for shortest canoe trip down the Mississippi River.

Many businesses would be envious of the budget Haleigh Doyle has, as head of marketing at Explore La Crosse - also known as the La Crosse Convention and Visitors Bureau or the tourism bureau. The more successful she is, the greater her budget. She gets to attract people for our birding, our outdoor activities, our festivals and more. From printed tourism guides to sharing visitors' Instagram posts to working with social influencers, come hear how Haleigh is bringing in people who spend money at our hotels, shops, restaurants, convention centers, meeting rooms, and more. 

Oh the things you can see in Holmen! Village President Patrick Barlow joined to talk about how their plan for growth years ago is paying off, as homes continue to be built. And, with them, businesses follow. Barlow discusses where all this growth is going, the infrastructure needs, how it is getting paid for and more.

From a local grocery store in 1920 to a regional manufacturer of sausage, hotdogs and more, Bakalars Sausage owner Mike Bakalars gives us an inside scoop on how the sausage gets made. Bakalars is growing through acquisition — taking on more markets and products and expanding distribution. Learn more about La Crosse-based Bakalars and the snap they give to any Minnesota Vikings.

Several more stores are leaving Valley View mall and headed to Onalaska. The city may be landlocked, but that doesn’t mean redevelopment isn’t happening. Mayor Kim Smith joins to talk about: the last big box store getting filled in the OmniCenter being constantly full Don’t assume that ice is permanent Fundraisers for dogs, and parks Upcoming planning New Businesses going in And the new City Administrator, in addition to other staffing changes