Bear With Us Podcast

For one year, Bear With Us has been sharing the people, projects, and ideas making a difference across north central Montana. In this special anniversary episode, we take a look back at where the podcast began, some of our favorite conversations and memorable moments, and the stories behind the projects we’ve had the opportunity to highlight.We talk about why storytelling matters in economic development, the incredible people who are helping their communities thrive, the power of partnerships, and the importance of shining a light on the success stories happening across rural Montana. We also celebrate a pretty exciting milestone: Bear With Us is officially an award-winning podcast!As we look ahead to year two, we’re talking about what’s next for the podcast, the guests and stories we hope to bring you, and why sharing the voices of the Hi-line continues to matter.Thank you for bearing with us for the past year, and for being part of the story. Here’s to many more conversations, community champions, and stories worth telling!

In this episode of Bear With Us, we sit down with Conrad Wendland, owner of the historic Hi-line Theater in Rudyard, Montana. From working on film sets in Los Angeles to returning home to farm and revive a beloved small-town movie theater, Conrad shares his incredible journey and passion for storytelling, community, and preserving rural Montana traditions.We talk about:The history of the Hi-line TheaterMystery Movie WednesdaysFossil Fest in RudyardThe magic of movie theaters in small townsHollywood vs. Hi-line lifeWhy local businesses and community spaces matterAlong the way, we dive into everything from Jurassic Park and cult classics to the future of rural communities across Montana’s Hi-line.If you love movies, small towns, nostalgia, or stories about people making a difference in their communities, this episode is for you.Be sure to like, subscribe, and follow along for more conversations highlighting the people, places, and projects that make North Central Montana special

🎙️ Bear With Us Podcast | MSU Northern, Morgan Hall & Building the FutureWelcome back to Bear With Us, the podcast from Bear Paw Development where we highlight the people, projects, and partnerships shaping North Central Montana.In this episode, Julea is joined by guest co-host Stephanie Larson to talk all things MSU Northern—from student experiences to the powerful impact of investing in higher education. They sit down with Melanie Skoyen, Managing Director of the Northern Alumni Foundation, to discuss how alumni, community members, and donors are helping shape the future of campus life.🏫 In this episode, we cover:The mission and impact of the Northern Alumni FoundationThe exciting renovation campaign for Morgan HallHow campus improvements support student success and retentionThe role MSU Northern plays in strengthening the Hi-Line economyOpportunities for alumni, businesses, and community members to get involved💡 You’ll also hear personal stories about what makes Northern special—from lifelong connections to unforgettable college memories (including hiding from a storm in a stranger’s basement 😅).💙 Whether you're an alum, a community member, or just curious about the future of rural education, this episode highlights how investing in students today builds stronger communities tomorrow.🔗 Learn more or get involved:Visit the Northern Alumni Foundation website or stop by their office in Cowan Hall on campus.👍 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to support local stories and voices!#BearWithUs #MSUNorthern #HiLineMontana #HigherEducation #CommunityDevelopment #Montana

In this episode of Bear With Us, we sit down with Tomi Simonson, owner of Shores Floral, to talk about what it really means to bloom where you’re planted 🌸Rooted in Chinook and now growing into Havre, Tomi shares her journey from part-time employee to business owner, the leap of expanding into a second location, and the realities of entrepreneurship in rural Montana. From weddings and wildflowers to risk-taking and resilience, this conversation is full of heart, hustle, and Highline pride.We talk about:🌷 Taking over a long-standing community business🌷 Expanding into Havre and what smart growth looks like🌷 The challenges (and rewards) of rural entrepreneurship🌷 Why consistency matters in small-town business🌷 Building community through generosity — including the “Blessed by Blooms” programWhether you’re a small business owner, dreaming of starting something new, or just love a good story about local growth, this episode is for you.Be sure to like, subscribe, and support your local small businesses — and maybe don’t wait until 5pm on Valentine’s Day to order flowers 😉Thanks for Bearing With Us! 🐻

In this episode of Bear With Us, we sit down with Montana State Senator Russ Tempel to talk about life in the legislature, advocating for rural communities, and the realities of representing one of the largest and most diverse districts in the state. From county commissioner to the Capitol, Senator Temple shares how decisions made in Helena ripple across the Hi-Line and North Central Montana.We dive into what a legislative session really looks like, the challenges rural lawmakers face, and the policies that matter most to small towns — including transportation, infrastructure, agriculture, and public safety. Plus, we talk motorcycles, lane-splitting legislation, and why understanding Montana’s backroads is just as important as understanding the bills.Whether you’re curious about state government, passionate about rural Montana, or just here for the motorcycle stories, this episode offers a thoughtful and approachable look at leadership, policy, and the people behind the laws.🎙️ Bear With Us is a podcast from Bear Paw Development, highlighting the people, places, and policies shaping North Central Montana.

In this episode of Bear With Us, we sit down with Whitley Nelson, the newly appointed town clerk for Fort Benton, to talk about her unexpected path into local government and what it’s really like behind the scenes at City Hall.From working in different cities and industries to landing back in Montana, Whitley shares how she found her way to Fort Benton, stepped into public service, and took on one of the most essential (and often misunderstood) roles in small-town government. We talk about budgets, spreadsheets, public service, community involvement, and the realities of being the go-to person for just about everything.Whether you’re curious about how local government actually works, interested in small-town leadership, or just love hearing stories about people who unexpectedly find their place, this episode is for you.🎙️ Bear With Us is a podcast from Bear Paw Development highlighting the people, projects, and leadership shaping North Central Montana.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone interested in community leadership and small-town life.

In this special episode of Bear With Us, we sit down with Havre’s outgoing mayor, Doug Kaercher, and incoming mayor, Wade Bitz, for a candid conversation during a pivotal moment of leadership transition.Together, we reflect on where Havre has been, the challenges and accomplishments of recent years, and what lies ahead as the city enters its next chapter. Doug shares lessons learned from decades of public service, while Wade discusses what motivated him to step into the mayor’s role and what he’s most excited (and mindful) of as he takes office.From infrastructure and community engagement to leadership philosophy, social media challenges, and even a few lighthearted moments, this episode offers an inside look at how local government works—and why community involvement matters.🎧 Topics include:Reflections on Doug Kaercher’s time as mayorWhat inspired Wade Bitz to run for officeInfrastructure, funding, and long-term planningCivic responsibility and community partnershipsThe importance of listening, leadership, and collaborationThank you for tuning in to Bear With Us, the podcast from Bear Paw Development, where we highlight the people, projects, and partnerships shaping North Central Montana.👉 Be sure to like, subscribe, and share to stay up to date on future episodes—and as always, thanks for bearing with us.

In this episode of Bear With Us, we dive into the heart of Havre’s new community brand and what it means to the people who call this place home. Joined by Karina Densmore of Havre Local, we read real community responses collected during the brand launch celebration—funny, heartfelt, nostalgic, and uniquely Havre.We talk about: ✨ The new “Stay for the Story” brand ✨ Favorite Havre memories and places ✨ Local events and hidden gems ✨ How community pride shows up every day ✨ Why cotton-candy skies and buffalo jumps matter ✨ And yes… the Ugly Burger 😄If you missed the brand unveiling, this episode gives you a front-row seat.📍 Learn more about Havre’s new brand at Bear Paw Development 📍 Follow Havre Local on Facebook for events & community stories#HavreMT #StayForTheStory #BearWithUsPodcast #BearPawDevelopment #HavreLocal

Welcome to this special interview with John Morgan - where we dive deep into how we can rethink downtown Havre, lift up small businesses, and breathe new life into our community.In this episode, we talk about the big ideas behind the Havre Urban Renewal Plan: how TIF districts can unlock investment, the importance of façade improvements, why walkability and downtown safety matter, and the role local folks have in shaping our shared future.What we cover:·       What an Urban Renewal District is - and why it matters to Havre·       The story behind the TIF-based Business Revitalization Fund·       How strategic planning, community input, and creative placemaking can reshape downtownLearn more about the Havre Urban Renewal Plan here: https://www.bearpaw.org/havre-urdDon’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you don’t miss future episodes of “Bear With Us” - where small-town stories meet big ambition.

What can you do with one dollar and a big dream? In this episode of Bear With Us, we talk with Kalyn Joyce, leader of of Spire Health, about how she and her team are transforming a vacant lot in Geraldine, Montana, into a new community wellness center.Kalyn shares her journey from idea to action — from growing up in a small town to coming home and creating a space that brings health, connection, and revitalization to her community. We discuss perseverance, rural pride, and what it takes to turn a long-time dream into reality.Join hosts Sara and Julea as they explore how one small town’s determination is building a healthier, stronger future for everyone.

In this episode of Bear With Us, we sit down with Amy Revious, Bear Paw Development’s new Food and Agriculture Development Center (FADC) Director! Amy shares her journey from Bozeman to the Hi-Line, her passion for supporting rural communities, and her vision for strengthening Montana’s local food systems.From farm-to-school programs and agritourism to creative ways local producers can grow their businesses, Amy dives into the opportunities and challenges facing Montana’s food and ag sector—and how Bear Paw’s FADC helps turn ideas into reality.Plus, you don’t want to miss the episode’s opening question: What kind of bear would make the best farmer? 🐻🌾

Welcome back to Bear With Us, the podcast from Bear Paw Development where we share the people, places — and this time, the paranormal happenings — that make North Central Montana so special.In this Halloween special, Julea and Sara dive into Montana’s spookiest legends, from haunted highways to mysterious creatures and eerie encounters. Joining them is their coworker (and resident skeptic) Stephanie Larson, who listens in as they try to make her believe… or at least get a little spooked.🕯️ Stories include: 👻 The Black Horse Lake Hitchhiker 🏫 Oscar, the Ghost of Havre High 🐺 The Shunka Warak’in 🎭 The Fort Peck Theatre Haunting 🌲 The Wendigo of the Bear Paws ⚔️ The Haunting Memory of the Bear Paw BattlefieldWhether you’re a believer or a skeptic, grab a blanket, turn down the lights, and enjoy this eerie tour through Montana’s ghostly side.🎧 Bear With Us is a podcast from Bear Paw Development, highlighting the people, places, and projects that make North Central Montana shine — even in the dark.#HauntedMontana #GhostStories #BearWithUsPodcast #MontanaLegends #SpookySeason #BearPawDevelopment

With Julea out sick, you get to step into Havre Beneath the Streets with Sara and Paul as they chat with Christy Owens, office manager and keeper of stories underground. In this episode, Shorty, Searching for Funds & Stories Underground, Christy shares how she stumbled into her role, the colorful history of Shorty Young, and the perseverance it takes to preserve one of Havre’s most unique treasures. From fundraising challenges to new “unliving” tours, discover how history, community, and creativity keep the lights on—literally—beneath the streets.

Raptor Claws, Real Community, and the Cretaceous Period 🦖✨ Join us as we sit down with Jeremiah Robinson, Director of Paleontology at the Great Plains Dinosaur Museum in Malta, Montana. From unearthing raptor teeth to caring for the crown jewel “Leonardo,” this conversation digs into the prehistoric past while celebrating the present-day community that makes discoveries possible.We talk dinosaurs, digs, and the surprising ways paleontology fuels both curiosity and local economies. Whether you’re a lifelong dino fan or just looking for a fun story from the Hi-Line, this episode has something for you.🔎 Highlights include:How a local teen accidentally discovered Montana’s T-RexWhy Leonardo the mummified dinosaur is world-famousThe thrill of kids and adults digging up fossilsHow the museum connects community, tourism, and science📍 Recorded on-site at the Great Plains Dinosaur Museum. 👤 Guest: Jeremiah Robinson 🎙️ Hosts: Sara & Julea – Bear With Us Podcast

From growing up in Chinook on Montana’s Hi-Line to founding Montana Actors Theater, teaching high school theater, raising a family, and now preparing to take his original play The Harvest all the way to New York City — Jay Pyette has lived and breathed theater for decades.In this episode of Bear With Us, hosts Julea and Sara sit down with Jay to talk about:His small-town roots and how the Hi-Line shaped his work ethicThe early days of starting Montana Actors Theater with little more than optimism and borrowed lumberHis years teaching and building a thriving high school theater programHow MAT grew into a cornerstone of community life in HavreThe journey of The Harvest from local production to off-Broadway in New YorkAlong the way, Jay shares stories of risk-taking, resilience, and why theater matters so much to rural communities.

In this special no-guest episode, Julea and Sara flip the script and put themselves in the hot seat! From bear-themed personality icebreakers to rapid-fire questions, they share their quirks, weird talents, and unpopular food opinions (celery lovers, beware).You’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories about their first impressions of each other, favorite past podcast guests, small-town adventures, and the unique work they do in community and economic development. Plus, they dish on their current obsessions, future plans, and some hilarious “only in Montana” moments.Whether you’re here for the laughs, the small-town charm, or just to find out what bear you might be, this episode is pure unscripted fun.🎧 Listen now and tell us in the comments: What kind of bear are YOU?#BearWithUs #Podcast #SmallTownLife #Montana #CommunityDevelopment #BehindTheScenes #PodcastHosts

In this episode of Bear With Us, we sit down with Joette Woods—Liberty County Commissioner and current president of the Montana Association of Counties (MACo). From her early days as an EMT to her current role representing rural Montana on state and national stages, Joette shares what it's really like to serve in local government. We talk about small-town resilience, the challenge of budgeting with limited resources, why listening matters, and how to lift others up without needing credit. This one’s full of heart and Hi-line wisdom. 

In this episode, Julea and Sara sit down with Kati Purkett from the Hill County MSU Extension Office to explore the powerhouse behind local youth development—4-H—and all the incredible programs the Extension office offers. From food safety classes and culinary education to youth mental health, livestock projects, and the Great Northern Fair, Kati shares how Extension touches nearly every corner of our community.We also dive into the beloved 4-H Chuck Wagon, what goes into raising animals for auction, why  MontGuides are a hidden gem, and how to rent one of the best event spaces in town. Whether you're a fair junkie, former 4-Her, or just curious about rural community life, this episode is packed with stories, laughs, and local pride.🐷 🐮 🍟 Come for the cheese fries, stay for the impact.Find Hill County MSU Extension on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MSUHillCountyExtension/Want to learn more about the Extension Office? Check out their website!https://www.montana.edu/extension/hill/?fbclid=IwY2xjawLkrnFleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETE0OFBjZFNGVDJ0UFBwTjBVAR5cT74YR4gQxAvL5K0bkBDlqf1djNJHWo9hlEhB4TOSJ5bEC8WdDX3HKzqYgg_aem_KAzBN1uQwkwpDMJt5mNJAQ

In this episode of Bear With Us, we’re joined by Heather DePriest, Board President of Chinook’s Friends of the Pool and Park. Heather shares how her kids bringing home a literal piece of the town pool kickstarted a major community project. From that moment on, she and a dedicated group of volunteers have been working hard to save and upgrade Chinook’s beloved pool and park. We talk about their big goals, the challenges of pool funding (spoiler: it’s tough), and their upcoming BrewFest fundraiser—complete with beer, music, and good vibes. If you love small towns doing big things, this one’s for you. For tickets to Brewfest, info on the foundation or to make a donation, please visit https://chinookfriends.org/ or connect with them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/friendsfoundationchinook

In this premiere episode of Bear With Us we sit down with the Executive Director of Bear Paw Development, Paul Tuss, to discuss his journey from small-town Opportunity boy to legislative powerhouse.