November 22, 202429 min
Sister Cities International Education Week
Diane Seyler and Irene Barmore join to discuss La Crosse Sister Cities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episodes
86
Latest episode
Nov 2024
Language
EN-US
About the show
WIZM News presents the BizNews Greater La Crosse podcast, where we bring you the latest business news impacting our community. Host Vicki Markussen interviews local entrepreneurs and business leaders to provide in-depth insights on the challenges and opportunities of doing business in the La Crosse area. Our show is a collaboration between WIZMNews.com and BizNews Greater La Crosse
Listen to episodes
November 1, 202443 min
Leo Bronston on being Wisconsin Chiropractor of the Year
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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
October 25, 202453 min
La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron talks leadership, engagement, mental 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 Connection00:14 Meet the Host and Guest00:50 Chief Kudron's Journey into Law Enforcement03:21 Career Progression and Roles04:22 Leadership and Department Philosophy06:36 Handling Feedback and Crisis Situations17:34 Mental Health Initiatives18:46 Community Resource and NRO Programs21:49 Perception and Culture in Policing26:09 Police Officer Support and Wellness Initiatives29:26 Challenges in Police Recruitment33:40 Balancing Stakeholder Needs38:59 Community Engagement and Public Safety45:57 Addressing Homelessness and Community Issues48:25 The Role of Surveillance and Technology50:28 Concluding Thoughts on Community and Service See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
October 18, 202433 min
A Legacy of Faith and Service: The Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration
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' Journey00:16 Welcome to Biz Cast Greater Lacrosse01:35 The Franciscan Sisters' Early Challenges02:49 Establishing Roots in La Crosse04:17 The Legacy of Perpetual Adoration05:05 Impact of the Pandemic on the Sisters05:53 The Remarkable Chapel and Its History08:16 Changes and Downsizing in the Community09:31 Evolving Roles and Community Involvement13:24 Spirituality and Lay People Involvement16:37 Commitment to Prayer17:15 Early Life and Vocation18:36 Educational Journey20:35 Leadership Roles and Achievements25:23 International Experiences30:00 Reflections and LegacySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
October 11, 202426 min
Gateway Area Council's Joe Carlson joins, as changes happen for Boy Scouts
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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
September 20, 202427 min
Park Bank’s Morgan Farmer on interest rate drop, homeownership, owning a bank
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 Bank00:30 Meet Morgan Farmer: Park Bank's Executive VP00:55 The Family-Owned Legacy of Park Bank02:34 Morgan's Journey Back to La Crosse03:56 Park Bank's Expansion and Community Impact05:51 Local Banking and Customer Relationships07:58 Board of Directors and Business Focus13:49 Adapting to Technological Changes16:08 Interest Rates and Economic Impact22:33 Challenges in Housing and Homeownership26:03 Morgan's Passion for BankingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
September 13, 202423 min
Western Tech's Kevin Ruetten talks business services
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 Position00:30 Western Technical College Programs02:22 Connecting Employers and Job Seekers02:59 Coulee Career Fest Details03:59 Diverse Job Opportunities05:59 Engaging High Schools in Career Development09:59 The Upper Midwest Manufacturers Association Initiatives13:33 Supporting Companies During DownsizingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
August 30, 202435 min
Joel House on Leading La Crosse Sign Company to New Heights
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 Company00:44 Understanding La Crosse Sign's Services and Reach01:40 The Importance of Signage for Businesses02:23 Navigating Sign Codes and Community Regulations06:40 Diverse Signage Solutions and Custom Projects09:21 Acquisition of Graf Electric and Business Integration11:41 Joel House's Background and Leadership Philosophy15:51 History and Ownership of La Crosse Sign Company17:34 Marketing and Community Connections18:32 Transitioning Leadership19:24 Core Values and Company Culture23:47 Employee Recognition and Support28:15 Innovations in Signage30:02 Future Directions and Digital Signage34:07 Passion for Growth and Success36:01 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
August 23, 202438 min
From selling La Crosse's Dublin Square to visiting Dublin with Matt Boshcka
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 Thoughts00:22 Welcome to Biz Cast Greater La Crosse00:31 Meet Matt Boshcka: The Serial Entrepreneur00:43 Matt's Business Ventures02:35 From Humble Beginnings to Entrepreneurial Success04:18 The First Business: Smart Health Media06:14 The Importance of Exit Strategies08:21 The Value of Taking Risks11:39 Community Support and Entrepreneurship17:12 Travel and Business Synergy19:57 Challenges in the Restaurant Industry21:14 Impact of Inflation on Food Costs22:25 Owning and Transforming a Golf Course23:16 Forming Business Partnerships23:57 Deciding When to Sell a Business24:34 Opportunities and Investments25:51 Introduction to Game Day Men's Health27:34 Personal Interests and Business Alignment30:05 Community Involvement and Rotary Membership31:43 Franchising Experience34:29 Future Plans and Personal Growth36:30 Closing Thoughts and ReflectionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
August 16, 202446 min
Holmen's Omega Bakery just adds ups up for Sarah Burns
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 Rick00:16 Welcome to BizCast: Meet Sarah Burns00:50 Introducing Omega Bakery01:43 From Box Mix to Scratch Baking03:08 The Science of Gluten-Free Baking04:03 Testing and Perfecting Recipes08:03 First Sales and Growing Demand10:51 Rebranding to Omega Bakery14:14 Balancing Teaching and Baking14:42 Navigating the Pandemic18:10 Porch Pop-Up Sales and Market Success20:32 Making the Leap to Full-Time Baking23:23 Opening a Storefront: A Logical Step23:53 Navigating Home Kitchen Limitations24:31 Market Strategies and Data-Driven Decisions26:00 The Impact of the Pandemic on Business Growth26:50 Expanding Market Presence27:50 Hosting and Curating Local Events28:59 Building a Community of Makers and Bakers31:20 From Home Kitchen to Commercial Space37:33 Marketing and Customer Engagement39:59 Future Plans and Passion for Baking44:16 Conclusion and ReflectionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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