In Our Wheelhouse

Dusty Hininger, the National Sales Training Manager for Firestone AG , shares his fascinating journey from a small family farm in Oklahoma to educating the agricultural industry across the globe. He discusses his early days starting in a local tire shop , his highly energetic approach to corporate training , and the science behind maximizing fuel efficiency and minimizing soil compaction. Dusty also explains the critical importance of weighing equipment and setting the perfect tire pressure , ensuring farmers save money and protect their fields when it matters most.

Hutch Johnson, a veteran Chief Meteorologist and founder of Hutch's Weather, shares his fascinating journey from the research lab to the digital screen. He discusses his early fascination with storms after witnessing a funnel cloud in fourth grade, his time tuning lasers for NASA, and the science behind severe weather tracking. Hutch also explains his decision to leave traditional broadcasting to launch his own streaming platform, ensuring his community gets uninterrupted coverage when it matters most.For real-time weather updates and a deeper dive into local meteorology, check out the new Hutch's Weather platform and see how he is redefining local coverage.https://www.hutchsweather.com/https://www.hutchsweather.com/hutchs-weather-app

Janell Meier, a stage four breast cancer survivor, author, and speaker, shares her powerful story of resilience and self-advocacy. She discusses her initial diagnosis at age 27, the recurrence that changed her life, and her family's journey with a gestational surrogate. Janell also explains how she now helps others navigate their own challenges through her writing and coaching.For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, learn about our "Pink Valve Caps" fundraiser, where 100% of donations support local patients at the Sanford Edith Breast Cancer Foundation.⁠https://janellmeier.com/

Matt Mrotek from Penske, a leading truck rental and leasing company, shares his story of building a career from the ground up after moving to North Dakota. He talks about the strategies he used to create a professional network from scratch , why genuine, long-term relationships are more powerful than a quick sales pitch , and how he persevered through early career challenges to become the top branch manager in the company.https://www.pensketruckrental.com/

Mark Hunter, “The Sales Hunter,” a world-renowned sales and leadership expert, shares lessons from his unconventional career path that took him from managing one of the world's busiest McDonald's in Alaska at age 19 to the global stage. He talks about why “managing up” is a critical skill for employees, how a few speeding tickets launched his entire sales career, and why he believes people don’t quit companies—they quit their managers. Mark also explains the power of having a core group of trusted peers and how humility can make you a more effective leader.⁠https://thesaleshunter.com/

Cole Mercier from Dakota Supply Group (DSG), an employee-owned company with over 60 locations, shares how employee ownership drives culture, loyalty, and long-term success. He talks about how DSG integrates ESOP values into daily operations, what keeps employees engaged for decades, and why ownership gives everyday workers a real stake in the future.https://www.dsgsupply.com/

Jay Thomas from Rides with Jay Thomas andThe Jay Thomas Show on 970 WDAY AM / 93.1 FM — the number one afternoon talk show in Fargo-Moorhead — shares how his car show went from a local idea to airing on NBC in New York City and nearly every major TV market in the country. He talks about how it all started, the ups and downs of syndication, stories from filming across the U.S., and why he focuses on real people with great stories.https://www.rideswithjaythomas.tv/https://www.topperscarclub.com/

Cindy Girdner from Valley Senior Services joins us to discuss the vital programs supporting seniors in our community. From Meals on Wheels to transportation and essential resources, she shares how these services provide independence, care, and even life-saving assistance. Learn how these programs make a difference and how you can help.https://www.valleyseniorservices.org/

Riley Boese from Dakota Medical Foundation joins us to talk about Giving Hearts Day—one of the largest and longest-running giving days in the country. Learn how this impactful event supports hundreds of charities across the region and how you can get involved beyond just financial donations. https://app.givingheartsday.org/ https://app.givingheartsday.org/#/maps

Travis Christopher from Sanford Health Foundation shares his insights on how community-driven healthcare is reshaping lives. From real-world stories to the strategies that make a difference, this episode dives into the power of collaboration and support networks in transforming health outcomes. https://www.sanfordhealthfoundation.org/

Jim Ohnstad shares the journey of OK Tire, from his father John’s purchase of the business in 1960 to its transformation into a 100% employee-owned company. Along the way, he recounts inspiring lessons on leadership and legacy, as well as fun stories from the early days of the business.