Fergus Spotlight

Hosted by Fergus Spotlight

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Episodes

158

Latest episode

Oct 2025

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About the show

The Fergus Spotlight podcast is a show that shines a light on the business community in Fergus Falls and the surrounding areas. Each episode features an in-depth interview with local entrepreneurs, business leaders and community memberes, discussing their history, the products and services they offer, and their unique perspective on business.

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60 recent

October 8, 20251 hr 39 min

Fergus Falls Fire Department - Ryan Muchow

In this episode, Jacob and Zane sit down with Fergus Falls Fire Chief Ryan Muchow to talk about the fire department and his role in serving our community. Throughout the episode we take on a lineup of six different hot wings prepared by Zane while discussing fire safety, history, and the many services provided the fire department. Whether you’re interested in public service, community leadership, or just enjoy getting to your community in a fun way, this episode offers a fun and fiery look into the life of Chief Ryan Muchow.

July 23, 20251 hr 1 min

Alex Blondeau - Windflower Natives

In this episode, we sit down with Alex Blondeau from Windflower Natives to talk about his life growing up in Fergus Falls and the unique path that led him to a career in native flower and prairie preservation. We explore what sparked his passion for this work, why native plants matter, and how his efforts are helping protect what's left of our local ecosystems. Whether you're into conservation or just want to hear a great local story, this episode offers a thoughtful look at Alex’s work and impact.Sponsors: Atlas Outdoor ServicesOutstate BrewingStumbeano'sVictor Lundeen Co.Fergus Home and HardwareLiberty Business SystemsWayne Schuett, Century 21 AtwoodDr. Zack ChiropracticElks Point Bar and Grill

July 16, 20251 hr 47 min

Nate Kunde - Otter Tail Power

In this episode, we sit down with Nate Kunde, Operations Manager at Otter Tail Power, to talk about his journey from lineman to leadership. We explore the history of our local power grid, where our electricity comes from, and discuss the security and capacity of our local power systems. Nate also shares what it takes to start a career as a lineman and how others can get involved. Whether you’re interested in energy, infrastructure, or a career in the trade, this episode offers valuable insight into the power that keeps our region running.Sponsors: Atlas Outdoor ServicesOutstate BrewingStumbeano'sVictor Lundeen Co.Fergus Home and HardwareLiberty Business SystemsWayne Schuett, Century 21 AtwoodDr. Zack ChiropracticElks Point Bar and Grill

July 13, 202534 min

The Winter Sloths

In this bonus episode, we sit down with Matt Danielson and Nick Ganoe from The Winter Sloths to hear some new music and talk about their journey toward a major opportunity: performing at the Global Citizen Festival. We dive into how the band got involved, the cause behind Global Citizen’s Top Hit Maker competition, and how the community can rally behind them to help make it happen. Whether you’re a fan of local music or just want to support hometown talent on a national stage, this episode is worth a listen.Vote For The Winter Sloths! ⬇️https://tophitmaker.org/2025/the-winter-sloths

July 9, 20251 hr 3 min

Zach Thomas

In this episode, we have the pleasure of bringing back local musician Zach Thomas to talk about some of the projects he’s been working on and share a few new songs. We get to hear some new studio recordings along with a couple of live performances. Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering his music, this episode offers a great look at what Zach’s been creating lately.Sponsors: Atlas Outdoor ServicesOutstate BrewingStumbeano'sVictor Lundeen Co.Fergus Home and HardwareLiberty Business SystemsWayne Schuett, Century 21 AtwoodDr. Zack ChiropracticElks Point Bar and Grill

July 2, 202550 min

Austin Hennen

In this episode, we sit down with entrepreneur Austin Hennen to discuss the path he took to start multiple businesses. We cover everything from lawn care and chainsaw art to dust control and how he got his start flipping used cars before eventually opening his own car lot. Whether you're interested in these industries or just want to hear more about a hard-working member of our community, this episode offers valuable insight into Austin’s life and the business he runs.Sponsors: Atlas Outdoor ServicesOutstate BrewingStumbeano'sVictor Lundeen Co.Fergus Home and HardwareLiberty Business SystemsWayne Schuett, Century 21 AtwoodDr. Zack ChiropracticElks Point Bar and Grill

June 25, 202552 min

The Mill Hotel

In this episode, we sit down with Andy Beck, the new manager of the Mill Hotel in Fergus Falls. We dive into the rich history of the mill, from its early beginnings to the 1919 cyclone and the eventual shutdown of its milling operations. We also explore the ambitious project of converting the historic building into a hotel and what this transformation means for the future of downtown Fergus Falls. Whether you're a history enthusiast or excited about local development, this episode offers a look at one of the city's most iconic landmarks and its next chapter.Sponsors: Atlas Outdoor ServicesOutstate BrewingStumbeano'sVictor Lundeen Co.Fergus Home and HardwareLiberty Business SystemsWayne Schuett, Century 21 AtwoodDr. Zack ChiropracticElks Point Bar and Grill

June 11, 20251 hr 13 min

Financial Advisor - Matt Mckinney

In this episode, we sit down with financial advisor Matt McKinney to cover a wide range of financial topics. We talk about everything from interest rates and cryptocurrency to the great wealth transfer and the overall health of the retirement system. Whether you're planning for your future or just trying to keep up with the ever-changing financial landscape, this episode offers valuable insight into the key issues shaping our economy today.Sponsors: Atlas Outdoor ServicesOutstate BrewingStumbeano'sVictor Lundeen Co.Fergus Home and HardwareLiberty Business SystemsWayne Schuett, Century 21 AtwoodDr. Zack ChiropracticElks Point Bar and GrillDisclaimer: This episode is for entertainment and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any financial product.

June 5, 20251 hr 3 min

Childcare - Katie Ganoe

In this episode, we sit down with Katie Ganoe to talk about all things child care. We dive into her work with West Central Initiative, the City of Fergus Falls, and Otter Tail County to raise awareness and connect the community to child care solutions. Whether you're a parent, provider, or just concerned about one of the region’s biggest challenges, this episode offers a look at the efforts being made to strengthen access to child care in our area.Sponsors: Atlas Outdoor ServicesOutstate BrewingStumbeano'sVictor Lundeen Co.Fergus Home and HardwareLiberty Business SystemsWayne Schuett, Century 21 AtwoodDr. Zack ChiropracticElks Point Bar and Grill

May 28, 20251 hr 1 min

DJ Dirty Dan

In this episode, we sit down with DJ Dirty Dan Rauchbauer to talk about the world of local trivia and karaoke. Dan shares his story and the path that took him through several industries before landing in the gig life as a regional DJ, trivia, and karaoke host. Whether you’ve seen him behind the mic or are curious about what it’s like to make a living entertaining crowds, this episode offers a fun look into Dan’s journey and the local entertainment scene.Sponsors: Atlas Outdoor ServicesOutstate BrewingStumbeano'sVictor Lundeen Co.Fergus Home and HardwareLiberty Business SystemsWayne Schuett, Century 21 AtwoodDr. Zack Chiropractic