Today we’re sitting down with the Chancellor of Montana State University Billings, Stefani Hicswa. Stefani joins us for a discussion about her career journey and path to Chancellor. From growing up on a farm in Dillon and being the first in her family to attend college to building strong teams and leading large education systems with authenticity and intentionality. On this episode, we talk about what it means to be Chancellor of MSU Billings, the passion she has for helping students, the importance of delegation, and work-life integration, as she says, “it’s how you do it on a farm”. We delve into the importance of mentors, people in her life that have helped her along her career journey, how to foster strong relationships, and lessons learned to thoughtfully manage your energy and time. She also gives us a few tips of how she’s simplified her wardrobe and how she has made little changes in her routine to spend her time where it really matters. Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

Today on this Vault short, KaVo & Marce B are talking about all things Better Off in Billings (BOIB), the official talent attraction and retention brand of Billings, Montana’s city. In this episode we dive into how to utilize betteroffinbillings.org as a resident or newcomer and as an employer doing talent recruitment. We talk about what “there’s space for you to be, grow and play” means, the BOIB ambassador group and how organizations can leverage this resource in their talent attraction and retention efforts. KaVo & Marce B discuss the research and thoughtfulness that went into building the site, and the BOIB brand and what it truly means to be Better Off in Billings. Whether you’re looking to relocate, level up your talent recruitment or learn more about Montana’s city, this episode will give you the information and resources you need, such as videos from local residents, a mover’s guide, blogs written by locals and so much more!  Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

Today we’re sitting down with Klay Welter and Trevan Sparboe, the creators and founders of Proof Donuts & Coffee. Working side-by side on their own things, they had the realization that their real opportunity was to partner together and the power of partnerships. We have a conversation about learning to make dough, finding the right investors, using unique avenues to create a buzz around what you’re creating, and finding the strength and confidence in a strong partnership. We also discuss the journey that led these two childhood best friends back together after a decade apart, the events they did to create excitement around their donuts, the power of collaboration, and the happy accidents that built their brand to the distinguishable brand it is today. We talk about Billings and the opportunity it provides entrepreneurs and creators to have “the opportunity to be at the forefront” to whatever it is that they are building. Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

On this Vault short Kayla and Marcell dive into what a “BAIL” team is and why small businesses and entrepreneurs should have one! We talk about what the “BAIL” team stands for, why it’s important and what to consider when picking your “BAIL” team. We discuss where to get started and things to look for when choosing your “BAIL” team members. Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

In today’s episode we sit down with entrepreneur, business owner, team builder, speaker, TEDx speaker, and author, Karen Grosz, owner of Canvas Creek Team Building. Karen shares her dynamic journey from working in sales, to the corporate world then on to opening her own businesses. She dives into the experiences and people she encountered along the way that helped her find her “next”. Karen discusses innovative team building, working with leaders, and being creatively open to change. She also talks about what led her to write her books “What’s Next” and “Quiet Leadership”. Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

On this Vault short we interview Big Sky Economic Development team members, Brandon Berger and Heather Kirpach to learn more about BSED’s Big Sky Finance Program.  We talk with the about what the SBA 504 Loan is, who and how it can be utilized, and their statewide footprint. We discuss the types of projects they have been part of across the entire state of Montana, the benefits of utilizing this long-term financing tool available to small business owners  for their real estate and/or equipment financing needs. Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

In our latest episode we sat down with Owner and Founder of Hannesson Home and Made for Home, Jessica Hannesson. We dive into what it means to “never sacrifice the dream”, creating your own destiny, working with your significant other, and building a business in Billings. She reflects on growing up in a family of entrepreneurs and the experiences she had that led her to where she is today. Jessica also talks about the importance of quality relationships, knowing your core values, and the joy she has in having responsibilities and doing something bigger than herself, “What is the limit? If you love something I truly believe it is endless.”Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

On this Vault short we interview two members from the young professional program of Billings, Billings NextGEN a program of the Billings Chamber of Commerce, Cathy Grider and Abbey Wink.We talk with Cathy and Abbey about why NextGEN was created, the importance of providing a network for Billings’ emerging leaders to engage in and  foster relationships, develop business opportunities, support civic involvement, and promote an overall investment in the future of the Billings community. We discuss the robust programming NextGEN provides and the variety of ways you can connect and get involved!  Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

Today, we’re sitting down with the founder and owner of Stacked, A Montana Grill, Stephen Hindman. Stephen is a business owner, culinary creator, United States Army Veteran, husband and father. His story is one of humble beginnings, when he joined the army and was stationed in Europe, and that’s when his curiosity and passion for food grew. We have a conversation about winning national food championships, building teamwork, and manifesting your dream into reality. He shares the importance of being intentional and memorable in all aspects of the business when building and sustaining your brand. Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

On this Vault short we interview Big Sky Economic Development team member, Thom MacLean to learn more about BSED’s placemaking micro-grant.We talk with Thom about the importance of empowering your community’s residents to transform spaces in their neighborhood into places. We discuss the types of projects our community has accomplished, what is placemaking, and the economic benefits of building a quality community. Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

In this episode, we delve into the world of tourism and leadership with Alex Tyson, Executive Director of Visit Billings. With 15 years of experience in broadcasting, Alex shares the keys to success in the tourism industry, emphasizing the love for both your job and your industry. Join us as we explore the intricacies of hiring the right team, effective board management, and the unique challenges and rewards of promoting a destination. Gain valuable insights into navigating the dynamic landscape of tourism while steering the ship as an executive director and community leader. Alex also opens up about her deep love for Montana, its great outdoors, and parks, and how she champions her team as a fervent advocate for their success.Thank you Visit Billings for sponsoring this episode! Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

Today, Kayla and Marcell are kicking off season 2 sharing their story of how they met through a local young professional network. From forging connections to diving headfirst into community initiatives, they share their journey of growth, friendship, and career milestones. Discover the twists and turns that led them to Big Sky Economic Development, where they now thrive. Brace yourself for an exhilarating season ahead on The Vault! Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

Today we’re sitting down with Jake MacKenzie, one of the first listeners of The Vault. As he says he’s our “our longtime listener, first time caller.”  Jake spent his first few years in Montana going to school at Montana State University transitioning to Rocky Mountain College in Billings where he finished his bachelor's degree in business master’s in accountancy. While at Rocky he works as an RA, meets his wife, and then begins volunteering at the Art House Cinema & Pub. A little later he transitions from volunteer to Operations Manager at Art House. Today we sit down with Jake to discuss topics ranging from managing a Theater during COVID, working in the non-profit arts world, being part of a capital campaign and theater remodel, and the process of what goes into showing movies and their selection process of what’s shown at the Babcock and Art House.  We also discuss community, how they engage with other organizations, unique events they’ve hosted at their theaters and the new unique experiences Art House, with the completion of phase two offers the community. This episode is brought to you by Visit Billings .  Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

Join us in the heart of downtown Billings, Montana, as we delve into the inspiring journey of Wade, a dynamic entrepreneur and passionate podcaster. In this episode,  we uncover the fascinating story behind Wade's evolution from a college podcaster at Wabash to the visionary founder of Lamplighter Creative.Immerse yourself in Wade's world as he shares his profound experiences within his fraternity and the vibrant community he fostered during his time at Wabash. His deep-rooted love for world history ignited a passion for creativity that transcends through motion design, photography, videography, and even a captivating short film. Discover how Wade's college odyssey sparked the flames of entrepreneurship, propelling him towards the creation of Lamplighter Creative. Through candid conversations, Wade reflects on pivotal moments, influential individuals, and the invaluable lessons learned along his path to success.Tune in as we explore the transformative power of learning, growth, and the unwavering commitment to innovation. Wade's story is an inspiring testament to the resilience of the entrepreneurial spirit and the boundless possibilities when creativity meets determination.Get ready to be inspired, motivated, and empowered by Wade's incredible journey.Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

In this episode, we venture into the world of family businesses, commercial ranching, and entrepreneurial spirit. Our hosts, Kayla and Marcell of Big Sky Economic Development, sit down with the remarkable Sara Hollenbeck, affectionately known as "Sara the Sheep Lady."Sara's journey is nothing short of inspirational. She shares her story of moving from California to the heart of Montana and the intriguing condition her boyfriend set before proposing—experiencing all four seasons in Montana. Embracing the ranching atmosphere, Sara knew she wanted to be part of the ranch while pursuing her entrepreneurial dreams.One of the most intriguing aspects of Sara's story is her commitment to taking care of the bum lambs and her pioneering efforts in promoting locally sourced meat. Back when she moved to Montana, buying from local farmers and producers wasn't as commonplace as it is today. Sara's mission took her around town, speaking to chefs about the potential of buying local meat, eventually leading her to become a founding member of the Yellowstone Valley Food Hub. She discusses how this initiative has grown into a thriving embodiment of community.Sara also delves into her unique journey of turning a competitor into a close friend and collaborator. She shares insights into the early days of the food hub and the strategic growth phases outlined in their initial business plan. Sara highlights the support they received from other co-ops and the significant moment when they launched their agricultural marketing co-op.Discover the fascinating origin of her company name, "High Five Meats," and the creative process behind it. Sara gives us a glimpse into life on a large sheep farm in Montana, the ideal landscape for raising sheep, and the intricacies of ranching, including sheep herders, lambing season, and the various aspects of processing meat, selling live animals, and the versatile uses of wool.Learn about the differences between lamb and beef consumption and the wool processing industry. Sara and her family's lives are deeply intertwined with the ranch, and she shares how they collaborate on various endeavors. She talks about her marriage, raising two kids, and the unique lifestyle of living on a ranch out of town.Join us for an insightful and inspiring conversation with Sara Hollenbeck as she takes us on a journey through her life as "Sara the Sheep Lady" and the visionary founder of High Five Meats. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the ranching way of life and the incredible entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in the heart of Montana. Tune in now!Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

What's it like to embark on a journey to a new country and state for college, stepping into the unknown with the hope of embracing a welcoming community that opens doors you never knew existed? Join us on this episode of "The Vault," where we're delighted to have Irene Ramirez and Gabriel dos Santos, fellow Battlin' Bears, to discuss the unique experience of being college students in Billings and transitioning from college life to becoming successful young professionals.Gabe, hailing from Brazil, shares his incredible journey, moving to an all-boys military school in Missouri at the age of 14 and later transitioning to Billings Central. He talks about the challenges of adapting to a new culture, making friends, and even conquering the Montana winter through skiing.Irene's story unfolds in 2015 when she moved to Billings due to Rocky Mountain College's therapeutic riding program. While transitioning out of college, she decided to stay and pivoted into business and organizational leadership.Both Irene and Gabe reflect on the profound impact of James Smith, a business professor at Rocky, who played a significant role in shaping their lives. They share insights into their college experiences, internships, and being young professionals. Notably, they delve into their internships running the Altana Ice Cream bus, a community engagement initiative. Irene discusses how James Smith encouraged her to take an internship with Altana, leading her to discover the intricacies of inventory management, marketing, and logistical coordination of the bus. She vividly recounts her journey from intern to full-time employee at Altana.Today, Gabe takes the helm of the Altana Ice Cream bus schedule, while Irene manages the company's social media. They both reminisce about their internship experiences, the unique Altana office culture, and the camaraderie they share. They highlight the importance of internships, especially for recent graduates, and explore the differences in their personalities that complement each other.In the heart of Billings, they've found a place where one can grow rapidly by taking initiative, engaging with the community, and getting involved. Building a network and fostering self-confidence are essential to launching a successful career. As they share their stories, you'll hear the laughter, reminiscent of their time at Rocky Mountain College, college internships, and the vibrant Billings community. Tune in for an episode filled with inspiration, laughter, and the valuable insights of two dynamic young professionals.Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

In this captivating episode of "The Vault at 201 N Broadway," we sit down with a true Billings enthusiast, Ryan Cremer. As one of our Better Off in Billings Ambassadors, Ryan offers a unique perspective on the city he calls home. Join hosts Kayla and Marcell as they dive into Ryan's fascinating journey from growing up in Billings, venturing to different Montana towns, and ultimately finding his calling in the heart of the city.Ryan's story unfolds with his deep love for the arts and culture scene in Billings, which often goes under the radar. He shares his passion for the city's exceptional restaurants, breweries, and distilleries, highlighting the hidden gems that make Billings so special.With a degree in liberal studies that equipped him with a broad knowledge base, Ryan developed a natural ability to connect with people. This skill set led him to a career in sales and development and a heartfelt desire to make a difference in the lives of children through speech therapy.However, it was his time at the Yellowstone Art Museum that ignited his passion for art and fundraising. Ryan discusses his journey from fundraising for the arts to his current role as the Executive Director of Family Service, an organization dedicated to preventing hunger and homelessness while alleviating poverty in Yellowstone County. He shares the innovative ways they're making a positive impact, including recycling and freeze-drying food to maintain its nutritional value.Ryan's commitment to serving the community extends beyond Family Service as he actively participates on various boards. He reflects on the experiences in college and high school that shaped his values and a desire to create positive change in the world.Foodies, you're in for a treat! Ryan reveals his love for food, travel, and cooking. He and his wife are avid travelers, exploring different cultures and cuisines, and he even writes "Better Off in Billings" blogs, guiding you to the best culinary experiences in the city.Tune in to discover how Ryan Cremer's passion for Billings, food, culture, travel, and community service have combined to create a remarkable journey that continues to shape the city's vibrant landscape. Whether you're a Billings resident or simply curious about the treasures hidden in this Montana gem, this episode is a must-listen for everyone!Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

In this episode of 'The Vault at 201 N Broadway,' we're excited to introduce you to the multifaceted and community-driven Justin Hutchinson, known to many as "McLovin." From his unexpected journey into radio to his passion for producing content and helping others, Justin wears many hats in Billings, Montana.Justin's radio career started with a curiosity for pushing buttons during high school broadcasting classes. Little did he know that this initial exposure would lead him to the airwaves of the Big J Show with Jason, where he officially joined the team in 2008. Justin's love for entertainment and making people laugh led him to embrace radio as "picture-less movies."Beyond radio, Justin's creative spirit shines through his decade-long experience as a wedding videographer, where he harnessed the power of storytelling through short films.Justin's impact on the Billings community extends far and wide. He's the founder of Big J Cares, a grassroots effort dedicated to supporting local schools, providing resources during emergencies like floods in Red Lodge, and much more. He's a trusted community leader, driven by his unwavering dedication to making a positive difference in people's lives.In this episode, we delve into Justin's passions, including his love for baseball, support for the Billings Mustangs, and his heartfelt involvement with causes like St. Jude's and Relay For Life. We also uncover the origins of his famous "McLovin" nickname and so much more.Join us as we get to know Justin Hutchinson, a radio host, philanthropist, baseball lover, and devoted advocate for Billings and its community.Tune in for an inspiring conversation that showcases the power of passion and dedication in making a meaningful impact on the world around us. Whether you're a business owner, dreamer, or just someone looking for inspiration, this episode has something for everyone.Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

Get ready to laugh, learn, and be inspired in this hilarious and insightful episode of The Vault at 201 N Broadway! We're thrilled to have Lukas Seely, a Billings native, join us to share his incredible journey from open mic competitions to making audiences roar with laughter in LA and beyond.Lukas, the youngest in his family, discovered his knack for humor early on and drew inspiration from comedic legends like Jim Carrey and Chris Farley. His comedy career took flight when he bravely entered an open mic competition during college, even though he didn't win at first. Lukas loved it so much that he persisted, eventually forming his own comedy show alongside friends.We dive into the nitty-gritty of Lukas's comedy craft, exploring his storytelling prowess, the importance of knowing your audience & using stories to evoke and share emotions. Lukas's journey then takes us to Seattle, where he honed his skills and truly "cut his teeth" in comedy while holding down a regular job. His courage led him to make the big leap to LA, and he reveals how he overcame the fear of moving and seized every opportunity to hustle and network.But that's not all; Lukas spills the beans on a comedy boot camp that opened doors he never imagined. He emphasizes the critical role of networking in the entertainment industry and how connections with the right people can transform your career.We also get a glimpse into Lukas's incredible experiences in comedy, including a memorable appearance on the Food Network and the diverse audiences he's encountered throughout his journey. His humility and gratitude shine through as he reflects on the support and belief of those who surrounded him on his path to success.So, if you're looking for a dose of laughter and some invaluable insights into the world of comedy and networking, join us in this episode with the one and only Lukas Seely!Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

Step into the captivating world of international trade as we sit down with Owen Haacke, the visionary owner and founder of Empress Brokers International LLC. In this episode, we delve into Owen's remarkable journey, starting from his roots in Billings, Montana, to his adventurous exploits across continents.Growing up with a deep love for Montana's rugged outdoors, Owen's passion for languages and history led him to fall in love with the intricate dynamics of international trade. Join us as he takes us through his high school journey, Latin class where he learned the historical threads that weave nations together, and his unforgettable experiences traveling across Italy and Asia.Embarking on a courageous journey, Owen's pursuit of knowledge led him to a Chinese university where he navigated a foreign landscape armed with nothing but a paper map and determination. Overcoming language barriers and cultural differences, he immersed himself in China's vibrancy and ultimately established Empress Brokers during his college years. A company name that was inspired by the Empress of China, 1783 ship. From working as a trade associate in Washington D.C. to his immersive years in China, Owen's dedication to trade relations solidified. While juggling a full-time job, he held tight to Empress Brokers.As fate would have it, the challenges of COVID-19 prompted a shift, bringing Owen back to his business full-time. Empress Brokers emerged as a beacon of solutions, seamlessly connecting businesses with the products and materials they require through their expertise in sourcing and logistics.Tune in to this episode for an inspiring narrative of resilience, cultural exploration, and the relentless pursuit of entrepreneurship. Owen's story is a testament to the power of embracing change, learning from diverse experiences, and carving a path toward global success.Join us as we explore Owen's journey, as insightful as it is inspiring, on this episode of The Vault at 201 N Broadway.Make sure to subscribe and share with a friend. To connect with The Vault click HERE To connect with Kayla click HERE To connect with Marcell HERE For additional episodes & to subscribe to our newsletter visit http://thevaultat201.com/ This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center. "The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."