Whether you are a local business leader, founder, economic developer, or curious community member, you will find thoughtful dialogue and practical takeaways on building stronger, more resilient economies. With a focus on learning and community insight, BEAR Discussions connects listeners to real-world perspectives on how businesses start, grow, and thrive.<br /><br />Each episode features candid conversations with business leaders, entrepreneurs, founders, policymakers, and industry experts about issues shaping regional development, from workforce and innovation to manufacturing, defense, and small business success. Business Expansion and Retention (BEAR) Discussions is a podcast by the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) that explores the strategies, stories, and people driving economic growth in the Chippewa Valley and beyond.

BEAR Discussions
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Podcast Overview
Whether you are a local business leader, founder, economic developer, or curious community member, you will find thoughtful dialogue and practical takeaways on building stronger, more resilient economies. With a focus on learning and community insight, BEAR Discussions connects listeners to real-world perspectives on how businesses start, grow, and thrive.<br /><br />Each episode features candid conversations with business leaders, entrepreneurs, founders, policymakers, and industry experts about issues shaping regional development, from workforce and innovation to manufacturing, defense, and small business success. Business Expansion and Retention (BEAR) Discussions is a podcast by the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) that explores the strategies, stories, and people driving economic growth in the Chippewa Valley and beyond.
Language
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Publishing Since
2/10/2021
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Recent Episodes

July 10, 2026
"Just Look at the Door" - Steve & Clay Olson – Episode 614
Recorded on location at Gilbert's of Sand Creek, this episode of the BEAR Discussions Podcast features host Charlie Walker and co-host Karen Smith in conversation with Steve Olson and Clay Olson. Together, they discuss the dealership's history, the value of family ownership, leadership, innovation, and what continues to drive the business forward in the Chippewa Valley.

June 26, 2026
"Learning to Say No" - Kelli Cook – Episode 613
Host Charlie Walker sits down with Kelli Cook, founder of The Yoga Plant in Chippewa Falls, to talk about how saying yes to everything led to burnout—and how learning to say no transformed her energy, her business, and the community she serves.

June 12, 2026
"Keep Your Eye On The Target" – David Epstein – Episode 612
Tune in to this episode with host Charlie Walker and cohost Ken Pearson of Jackson County Economic Development & Tourism for a conversation with David Epstein, recorded in Jackson County.<br /><br />Listen as David shares insights on real-world challenges and opportunities in rural communities, and how treating your employees well can go a long way toward building strong, successful organizations and regions.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
137 total episodes available
Recent guests on BEAR Discussions
Guests from recent episodes — sign up to see every guest that has ever appeared on this show.
Joe Roshell
Guest
Andrea Polnaszek
Guest
Brandon Mitchell
Guest
Amanda Novak
Guest
Scott Coller
Guest
Scott Beers
Guest
Paul Lofthus
Guest
John Gatto
Guest
Tom Mannes
Guest
John Wilkinson
Guest
Matt Frost
Guest
Cindy Meyer
Guest
Deep-dive analytics for BEAR Discussions
Frequently asked questions
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- What is BEAR Discussions?
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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