Listen First Montana

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 57: Carmen McSpadden Carmen McSpadden's involvement with Leadership Montana spans the entire 20 years of the organization's history. She served on the organizing committee in 2003, graduated from the flagship program in 2006, and since then has served as a leadership trainer. Carmen is also the director of Leadership Institute at Montana State University. In this conversation with Chantel Schieffer, recorded in early 2023, Carmen discusses her experience as an entrepreneur, the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Montana, why she fervently believes in the power of ‘listening first,' and much more. 

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 56: An Interview With The Graduating Class The Leadership Montana Flagship Class of 2023 has graduated! In this episode, Chantel Schieffer hosts short interviews with nine members of the class as they approach the end of their first Leadership Montana journey.  Kelly Durbin-Williams, Greg Doyon, Lori St. Aubin, Christiana Nyquest, Kim Hayworth, Travis Yuzik, Robin Kelson, Matt Mandel, and Sara Urbanik each share why they chose to apply for Leadership Montana, which communities they most enjoyed visiting, lessons learned from their experience in the program, and much more. This episode was recorded in the Spring of 2023 on the campus of MSU-Northern in Havre, MT.  Powerful Quotes:  “I remember talking to graduates, and they would always talk about Leadership Montana with a little bit of a gleam in their eye and a little bit of a knowing smile.  And now I think I know exactly where they were coming from.” - Greg Doyon  “I think Leadership Montana has actually kind of reset the way I think or approach conversations with people at a very fundamental level, in a way that I didn't expect.” - Greg Doyon  "I don't know how I could love this state more, but I do. Thank you, Leadership Montana." - Christiana Nyquest 

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 55: Tribute to Jerry This episode is a tribute to Dr. Gerald Evans, who passed away in January of 2023. When Leadership Montana was founded in 2003, Jerry served on the original organizing committee, and then as a member of the Board of Governors for ten years, before becoming lead trainer in 2014. There is not a single Leadership Montana class that has not experienced his impact and influence. The episode begins with Chantel Schieffer, who shares the speech she gave at Jerry's memorial service on the University of Montana campus on February 11, 2023. Next, various friends, family members, colleagues and students reflect on Jerry's life and the memories they shared with him. Many of these reflections were recorded in the hours just before Jerry's memorial service. Leadership Montana sends a special thank you to all those who contributed to this episode.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 54: Live from Butte, MT: Kelly Heaton and Chantel Schieffer  LIVE from Butte, Montana! Kelly Heaton is the incoming CEO of Leadership Montana. In this first-ever Listen First Montana episode recorded with a live audience, Chantel Schieffer, outgoing CEO of Leadership Montana, interviews Kelly about her values, her leadership philosophy, and much more. Members of the live audience, including Leadership Montana staff and board members, also get a chance to ask Kelly a few questions. Kelly shares stories of her past leadership roles, leadership lessons from her 10-year-old son, her hope for the future of Leadership Montana, and much more. 

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 53: Heather Collins 20 Questions   To celebrate Leadership Montana's 20 Year Anniversary, we're getting to know the Leadership Montana staff by asking each of them 20 Questions. For this episode, we're joined by Leadership Montana Development Director, Heather Collins. Heather shares why she loves fundraising for Leadership Montana, her deep connection to music, her leadership philosophy, and much more. 

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 52: Hatton Littman 20 Questions   To celebrate Leadership Montana's 20 Year Anniversary, we're getting to know the Leadership Montana staff by asking each of them 20 Questions. For this episode, we're joined by Leadership Montana Gracious Space Director, Hatton Littman. Hatton shares what she loves about heading up Gracious Space facilitation and training for Leadership Montana, her deep connection to creative work, her leadership philosophy, and much more. 

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 51: Cassandra Cox 20 Questions   To celebrate Leadership Montana's 20 Year Anniversary, we're getting to know the Leadership Montana staff by asking each of them 20 Questions. For this episode, we're joined by Leadership Montana Youth Program Coordinator, Cassandra Cox. Cassandra shares why she is excited to help develop leadership skills for young Montanans, how she spends her free time in Forest Grove, Montana, her leadership philosophy, and much more. 

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 50: Casey Wolfe 20 Questions   To celebrate Leadership Montana's 20 Year Anniversary, we're getting to know the Leadership Montana staff by asking each of them 20 Questions. For this episode, we're joined by Leadership Montana Member Experience Director, Casey Wolfe. Casey talks about what she values most in a friend, her volunteer work outside of Leadership Montana, why she loves coaching volleyball, her leadership philosophy, and much more.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 49: Jen Davis 20 Questions To celebrate Leadership Montana's 20 Year Anniversary, we're getting to know the Leadership Montana staff by asking each of them 20 Questions. For this episode, we're joined by Leadership Montana Vice President, Jen Davis. Jen shares what brings her hope, her pet peeve, her favorite music, her leadership philosophy, and much more.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 48: Anna Berg 20 Questions   To celebrate Leadership Montana's 20 Year Anniversary, we're asking each of our team members 20 Questions. To kick things off, we're joined by Leadership Montana Program Director, Anna Berg. Anna shares what brings her hope, what she does for fun, her favorite music, and much more.   

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 47: Indigenous Immersion Initiative - Mini-Series episode 9 For this 10th installment of our mini-series focused on Leadership Montana's newest program, the Indigenous Immersion Initiative, we're featuring a conversation recorded in January of 2023 in Arlee, MT, on Flathead Nation between Shelly Fyant, Velda Shelby, and Mary Stranahan. These three local leaders and graduates of Leadership Montana discuss exciting work happening to strengthen the community of Arlee and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, including Shelly's work in food sovereignty and Salish language development occurring at a local school. Mary describes the strong leadership of CSKT, and Velda Shelby provides a fascinating history of stick game in the area. The group also discusses the deep challenges of racism and intergenerational trauma experienced by Indigenous Peoples, and much more. Velda Shelby Powerful Quotes “I hope the takeaway from this reservation was that we are a very resilient people, and that I believe we will succeed in whatever we put our minds to.”  Shelly Fyant Powerful Quotes “My mantra when I was on Tribal Council was to lead with love, and I think that really transfers over to Leadership Montana. That's what I've seen so far, is people with the best intentions trying to make this world a better place.” 

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 46: Gwen Lankford  Gwen Lankford is the President and Owner of Sapphire Strategies, a communications firm focused on providing support for effective constituency outreach since 2005.  She is also a member of the Gros Ventre Tribe of Fort Belknap, and a direct descendent of the Salish Tribe of the Flathead. In this episode, Gwen talks about her deep connection to the land and to her tribal heritage on both sides of the state of Montana.  Gwen also shares thoughts on her work and passion to bring differing groups together to see and hear one another amidst challenge and conflict.  Gwen also describes the gifts and divinity she sees in all people, her thoughts on the value of indigenous teachings and pathways, her work for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, and much more.   Gwen Lankford Powerful Quotes “I've got two children and I know how deeply I love those little girls, and I know the kinds of sacrifices I make for them, and I know that the work that I try to do, just so many of the things that I try to do in this iteration of my life, is really focused on trying to create stability, trying to create healthy experiences, but just it comes from such a deep place of love for those little girls. And at some point, if I'm lucky and I get to be a grandmother for their children, I'm going to love those babies too. I know they're just going to be so awesome, that's going to be an exciting opportunity. And at some point, there will be another set of babies, and another set of babies, but at some point, I will no longer physically be here, but my love will continue on. And all the work and all the sacrifice that I have in this lifetime I understand that in terms of that moving forward and each generation.  But the crazy thing is, is that I have to remember that I'm one of those babies. And so I get to benefit from all of the sacrifice, all of the work, all of the obligations that my lineage offered me, that maybe they didn't know my name, they didn't know when I was going to come, but that's the love that I also get to live here with. And for me, that's also, again, in the landscape, because there are probably instances, especially if you understand some of the more recent history that we have as Salish people, as tribal people, where they probably even gave their life in terms of trying to create safety or security or whatever it was. There are probably even those instances of ultimate sacrifice for me to be here today and to have this breath and to have this beautiful life that I have. And so you know, beyond even just the physical aspects of those cycles of birth and death and life, there's also the really critical kind of spiritual aspect of it of just all the contributions that the lineage that I come from have made for me to be here and to be allowed to have this breath to be here in this beautiful day, to just have all the blessings and abundance that I get to experience in this lifetime.”   “There's been so many instances where just again, elevating the voices of the tribe has created an understanding and even a desire and an invitation to be in partnership and to be in a collaboration that has benefitted, immediately, families or the region of the community and that's really incredible when that happens” 

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 45: III Mini-Series episode 8: Dr. Joe McDonald, Cinda Ironmaker, and Major Robinson from the Flathead Nation  This mini-series episode was recorded on the Flathead Nation and is made up of 3 parts. For part 1, Major Robinson interviews Dr. Joe McDonald, founder and former president of Salish and Kootenai College. For part 2, Major interviews Cinda Ironmaker, Public Health Specialist for the Rocky Mountain Tribal Leaders Council, and participant in the III program.  And finally, we turn the mic on Major to ask him a few questions about examples of indigenous culture reflected in architecture and what he is learning in this Leadership Montana program.   Dr. Joe McDonald Powerful Quotes Dr. Joe McDonald on Tribal Colleges serving both indigenous and non-indigenous students:  “It's done so much to promote understanding here.  The students are in classes together, visit together, recognize one another's cultures and needs and appreciate one another more, so it really has worked out very well.”  Major Robinson Powerful Quotes Major Robinson on Indigenous Culture reflected in Architecture:    “You know that's important because it makes me stand a little taller, it makes me smile, because it's us reflecting our culture in our buildings that we work and we live in and we play in, and it just shows once again that same message of “we're still here” and not only are we still here,  we're thriving, we're expressing our cultural identity through architecture.”   Major Robinson on his learning during the CSKT session of III    “We're taking our people, hopefully to that next level, and leading in a way that's thoughtful, but leading from a position of identity and connection to our community.”  “What I've learned on this trip is realizing how integrated we are with other tribal members as native people. I was reminded that back in the 1980s I actually worked very closely with a lot of the tribal members because we were in that kind of unique group of firefighters you know, a couple of us were smoke jumpers and I actually was a smokejumper that worked with the current tribal chairman, Tom McDonald, and it just made me laugh and smile because you know that was kind of part of our upbringing on the reservation, is that if you can do firefighting, you know, that was something. Because you were giving back to your people, you were giving to your family, you were challenging yourself, and then to go on and do smoke jumping was just a real honor to represent my tribe. It wasn't just representing me it was representing my tribe. There's not too many that do that and I felt like I was carrying my tribe with me and to see that the tribal chairman here was also a smokejumper and lived that life, and in fact, councilwoman Carol Lankford that we met last night, and that I've known for some time as well, that she was also a firefighter as well, so it's just those connections that are so important that you know we're taking our people, hopefully to that next level, and leading in a way that's thoughtful, but leading from a position of identity and connection to our community.”  Cinda Ironmaker Powerful Quotes Cinda Ironmaker on her experience in the CSKT session of III:    It's just the learning. I think with all of the tribes that we have went to, a lot of the cultures are different on each reservation.  And many of those I did not know.  So, I am learning as we go along too, like I say, like we get into those individual conversations with Leadership Montana and whoever is teaching those classes and, I learn. I learn things that I never knew before, even though I've traveled to many of these reservations many times, spoken to many people, some of these conversations are things that I have never known before.” 

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 44: Indigenous Immersion Initiative Mini-Series episode 7 For this 7th installment of our mini-series focused on Leadership Montana's newest program, the Indigenous Immersion Initiative, we're featuring a conversation recorded in January of 2023 on Flathead Nation between Nancy Schlepp of Ringling, MT, and Chantel Schieffer.  Nancy shares her favorite lessons from the program so far, including the ideas that are deepening her feeling of connection to the land, both on her family's ranch and across Montana.  Chantel and Nancy also discuss what gives them hope for the future, Nancy's core value of spirituality, and why they value their friendship despite their political differences.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 43: Indigenous Immersion Initiative Mini-Series episode 6 For this 6th installment of our mini-series focused on Leadership Montana's newest program, the Indigenous Immersion Initiative, we're featuring a conversation recorded in September 2022 on the Northern Cheyenne Nation between Samuel Enemy Hunter and Juanita Vero.  Samuel talks about the history and culture of the Crow Tribe, Juanita asks Samuel about relationships between tribes in Montana, and Samuel asks Juanita about her views on tribal relations as a Missoula County Commissioner. If you would like to learn more about these two individuals, they have full episodes of Listen First Montana. Juanita Vero's full episode is episode #14, and Samuel Enemy Hunter's full episode is Episode #11, available on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 42: Indigenous Immersion Initiative Mini-Series episode 5 For this 5th installment of our mini-series focused on Leadership Montana's newest program, the Indigenous Immersion Initiative, we're featuring a conversation recorded in September 2022 on the Northern Cheyenne Nation between Sheri Jarvis of Virginia City, and Tony Brockman of Kalispell.  Sheri and Tony discuss Tony's recent application for membership in the Crow Tribe, Sheri's observations of the landscape as a professional artist, what they are learning in this program, and much more.  If you would like to learn more about Tony Brockman, check out his full episode of Listen First Montana (Episode #19) wherever you get your podcasts.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 41: Indigenous Immersion Initiative Mini-Series episode 4 For this 4th installment of our mini-series focused on Leadership Montana's newest program, the Indigenous Immersion Initiative, we're joined by Jim Swan of Rocky Boy, and Adrienne Hines of Helena. Jim and Adrienne discuss why they chose to join the program, what has surprised them from the program so far, and how Adrienne plans to take what she is learning back to her local community and workplace. As a member of Leadership Montana's Indigenous Advisory Committee charged with overseeing the Indigenous Immersion Initiative, Jim shares his early concerns about non-native perceptions of Indian Country, and how that has changed throughout the program.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 40: Indigenous Immersion Initiative Mini-Series episode 3 For episode 3 of our Mini-Series, we're featuring a car ride conversation between two participants in Leadership Montana's Indigenous Immersion Initiative, Emily Yost of Livingston and Chris Warden of Missoula. Emily and Chris talk about why they want to learn more about Indigenous communities and culture in Montana, what they learned during their visit to Northern Cheyenne Nation, and how they are grappling with the guilt and pain they feel as they deepen their understanding of Indigenous history. Emily and Chris also describe their experience participating in a sweat lodge in Lame Deer, Montana, and how cared for they felt throughout that new experience. Emily Powerful Quotes On why she said ‘yes' to the program: “So I realized in work and in my personal life that I didn't have native perspectives, and why is that? Why don't I have friends or work connections or people in other communities in my life that are native that I'm aware of? And I felt like that was missing. So I'm really glad the program said yes to me.“   “That's something that I've been struck by at this session, is the need for healing within native communities, but we need to do it together because we need to heal too. I think there's a lot of power in that, and I'd like to lean into it more.”   “One of the challenges for me has been articulating my feelings, probably around guilt, around this topic, so I'm glad that we have some more time so I can work through my own reflection and also begin to share that with other people and have those discussions more comfortably because I think I had some discomfort about talking about race with my friends and my communities and I think starting within myself and identifying how I feel, and noticing my own thoughts and I wonder, where did that thought come from?  I didn't realize I held that notion or idea about people. I wasn't even aware that I held that.  It almost doesn't matter where it came from for me right now, because I'm noticing within myself and through self-awareness, working through more reflection on what has happened and what do I do in the future?” Chris Inspiring Quotes “When this program was first envisioned and it was discussed, I agreed that being able to come have this opportunity to truly immerse yourself in someone else's culture, and particularly Indigenous culture, could be potentially a life-changing experience for me but something that is really important for all leaders in Montana if we're really working to come together as one community in Montana and really understand everybody in Montana.”   “I guess coming into this program I knew that I would learn new things and I would see new perspectives, but I think what has happened to me is more like ‘What is my role in it? And how do I come to grips with what has occurred in history?' Because I think it's easy for a white person like me to say ‘well, you know those are past times, and I wasn't directly involved and you know we've come so far' and I think that's where I started the program and that's where I'm at now.   ”I actually feel a great deal of kinda personal guilt and pain for what happened. And I actually think that's right for where I'm at. And I think there's a lot of healing to do both within Indian country and outside of it. And maybe there's even a need as we try to build bridges to the future is that we also need to heal together.” 

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 39: Indigenous Immersion Initiative Mini-Series episode 2 For Episode 2 of our mini-series about Leadership Montana's newest program, the Indigenous Immersion Initiative, we're featuring a conversation between Leadership Montana President and CEO, Chantel Schieffer, and Chair of Leadership Montana's Indigenous Advisory Council, Major Robinson.  Major describes the feeling of returning to his home, the Northern Cheyenne Nation, with this group of Leadership Montana alumni, and what he hopes they will take away from their visit.  Chantel and Major also talk about the legacy of Barbara Braided Hair, their shared experience in a sweat lodge, and the significance of building trust and connection between people and communities in Montana. Major Robinson Powerful Quotes “My hopes for this program as we go forward is that people take what they're experiencing through this journey together and take it back to their communities…I really hope that now that there's been some trust built here, in the process of what I see happening here on Northern Cheyenne these last three days, is people are willing to pull back that curtain a bit, pull back that veil and say ‘this is who we are.'”   “That's what, I guess, I would like my legacy to be.  Is that I was one of the people – one of – and that I was able to give back what I was given.  I mean legacy is so important here on our reservation because our ancestors literally died so that we could have this homeland.  This is our legacy.  This land, because this land and our language is what keeps us together so that it's not just an “I” thing, it's a “we” thing, and if I'm thought of as one of the “we” and that I left something good, that would be great.” Chantel Schieffer Powerful Quotes “We can't do any of the things that we do without the support of each other.  We're not meant to be on this planet and do things by ourselves. Right? We have to rely on each other.  We belong to each other.  And that sense of belonging for me I think has been something that has really sparked in the last few years, how we belong to each other too.  Not just to a place, but to each other.”

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 38: Indigenous Immersion Initiative Mini-Series episode 1 Introducing a new Listen First Montana mini-series: the Indigenous Immersion Initiative. Join the first cohort of Leadership Montana's newest program as they visit Tribal Nations and communities across Montana to learn about the unique and vibrant indigenous cultures in Montana.  We'll give listeners an inside look at how program participants are learning and reflecting on the people, opportunities, and challenges of Montana's indigenous communities. In this first episode, we hear three short conversations from the Blackfeet Nation. The first conversation features Chantel Schieffer, President and CEO of Leadership Montana, and Major Robinson, Chair of Leadership Montana's Indigenous Advisory Committee. Chantel and Major discuss the original idea for the program, what Major hopes the impact of the program will be, and how they both seek to carry on the legacy of Barbara Braided Hair. We also hear from Chuck Winn about his experience visiting Browning, MT, for the first time, and we hear from Jim Bliss about why he joined the program and has been challenged by the idea of racism. Major Robinson Inspiring Quotes "We're just asking people ‘come and open up your minds and your hearts. And hear this new perspective and allow yourself to view if from a very open lens so that you can really hear what people are sharing.'” “I hope that what it does is plant the seed in each one of the participants to just open themselves up and say ‘hmm, I didn't look at it from that perspective before.' OK. And take that back to their communities, back to their families, and start to shift this idea of judging people just on looks alone, or based on stories, or in some cases based on one experience – of their experience with an Indian community or, you know, a native American. So I'm hoping that the seeds are being planted for that. For people to take it back to their families and share with them. And as I shared this morning, it's happening the same for myself with my experiences as a native person is that I'm taking these experiences back to my family too, and it's nice to know that there are folks out there who are willing to put down their biases their prejudices their past history and say ‘no, let's look at things as they are today.'“ Chuck Winn Inspiring Quotes "This is Montana, this is the heart of Montana and I didn't feel comfortable here, and it really bothered me, why? It wasn't because I feared my safety, it was because I felt like a stranger, and that's on me. That's where the shame comes from, growing up here and not reaching out to everyone in Montana, not just the places I am, but the places I'm not. You know, we either lean in or lean out and I felt like I was leaning out and I'm ashamed that I didn't lean in, and once I started meeting some folks and talking to them and today this experience has been amazing – we're all the same, if we go down deep enough, we're all the same. And that's where we can start to build our relationships back up."

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 37: Leadership Montana's 20-Year Anniversary To celebrate Leadership Montana's 20-year anniversary, we're bringing you a special episode, featuring stories about the founding of Leadership Montana.  We'll hear from four leaders who were a part of that process back in the early 2000s: Bruce Wittenberg, founding CEO of Leadership Montana, Debbie Vandeberg, member of the organizing committee and graduate of the first Leadership Montana Class, Mike Halligan, graduate of the first class of Leadership Montana, and Dr. Jerry Evans, member of the organizing committee and 20-year leadership instructor for Leadership Montana. Why was Leadership Montana created? What was the vision of the founders? Has Leadership Montana delivered on that vision? Find out answers to those questions and more by listening to this special episode celebrating Leadership Montana's 20-year anniversary. Leadership Montana's 20-Year Anniversary

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 36: John Morrison This episode features John Morrison, former State Auditor and current member of Leadership Montana's Indigenous Immersion Initiative. John talks about his work as State Auditor, his experience in the Indigenous Immersion Initiative, and his work on Healthy Montana Kids.  John co-authored the book Mavericks: The Lives, and Battles of Montana's Political Legends.  He shares a few highlights and lessons from the book, including stories about Jeanette Rankin, Mike Mansfield, Thomas Walsh, and more. John Morrison Guest Bio John Morrison is an attorney and former Montana State Auditor. He was a member of the first Leadership Montana class; the Class of 2005. John grew up in Whitefish and graduated from Hellgate High School in Missoula. John is based in Helena, where he lives with his wife, Cathy. John and Cathy have two daughters, Allison and Amanda, who were born and raised in Montana. Eric Halverson Host Eric Halverson leads the production of the Listen First Montana podcast with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading.   Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula, where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center and is a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class of 2019.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 34: Barb Cestero, Cami Skinner, and Ariel Overstreet-Adkins In this episode, Chantel speaks with Leadership Montana Board Members Barb Cestero of Bozeman, Cami Skinner of Sidney, and Ariel Overstreet-Adkins of Billings.  This group discusses the transfer of wealth in Montana, the importance of deepening our understanding of agriculture in Montana, and the preservation of wild spaces in our state.  They also discuss how they make time for themselves and their own self-care while juggling many other demands on their time, and much more. Chantel Schieffer Host Chantel, Class of 2010 and Masters Class 2019 alumna, is also our President & CEO. An occasional host, she brings to Listen First Montana a deep knowledge of our alumni and the many ways they work to build a better Montana. Inspiring Quotes "We are more productive, we are more efficient, we are better employees and employers, colleagues and co-workers, parents and spouses and friends and all of the things that we do…we are better at everything when we are wholly aligned in ourselves, and to be wholly aligned in ourselves we have to understand more about who we are and what makes us, what gets us out of bed everyday, what makes us excited, what fills our cups and makes us passionate and makes us want to work hard for all of those things that we have in our lives." Barb Cestero Guest Ariel Overstreet-Adkins Guest Cami Skinner Guest

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 34: Stephen Shreibeis In this episode, Chantel speaks with Leadership Montana Board Member and Superintendent of Glendive Public Schools, Stephen Shreibeis. Stephen talks about his experience leading a school district through significant challenges and divisiveness during the COVID-19 pandemic, how love shapes his leadership style, and where his passion for servant leadership comes from. Stephen also describes a tragic loss in his life and how he works to ‘flip' his greatest challenges into his greatest opportunities to grow. Chantel Schieffer Host Chantel, Class of 2010 and Masters Class 2019 alumna, is also our President & CEO. An occasional host, she brings to Listen First Montana a deep knowledge of our alumni and the many ways they work to build a better Montana. Stephen Shreibeis Guest Stephen's life goal is to value, believe in, and unconditionally love people every day. This goal has led him to where he is currently as the Superintendent of Glendive Public Schools in Glendive, MT. Stephen started as a high school math teacher and quickly fell in love with leadership. His passion for adding value to others and serving them steered him into administration where he could support teachers and staff every day. Stephen has been an administrator in four different schools before becoming superintendent of Glendive Public Schools. He is excited to work with a great staff and community making small actions to create great change. In August of 2016, Stephen became a certified speaker, trainer, teacher, and coach for the John Maxwell Team. This team focuses on training leaders around the world. Recently he was able to go to Costa Rica and train the country's leaders to be facilitators, in a roundtable model to help transform their country. Stephen has also started Live2Lead-Glendive, a half-day, John Maxwell leader development experience designed to equip attendees with new perspectives, practical tools, and key takeaways (www.live2leadglendive.com). He is excited to see where this road leads him and plans to add value to as many people as possible throughout the remainder of his life. Stephen's Motto is: Be A SPLICER (Supporting others, Passionate in everything I do, Lead by example, Integrity above all, Communicate effectively, Equipping others, and Relationships are fundamental)

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 33: Julie Jenkinson, Aaron Pratt, and Darrell Hirsch In this episode, Chantel speaks with Leadership Montana Board Members Julie Jenkinson, Darrell Hirsch, and Aaron Pratt.  This group of leaders discuss the sense of purpose they each find in parenting, their love for their respective homes in Montana, and why they chose to serve Leadership Montana through service on the Board of Governors.  They also discuss the future of Leadership Montana, what “holding hard conversations” means to them, and much more. Chantel Schieffer Host Chantel, Class of 2010 and Masters Class 2019 alumna, is also our President & CEO. An occasional host, she brings to Listen First Montana a deep knowledge of our alumni and the many ways they work to build a better Montana. Julie Jenkinson Guest “Have the conversation, not the debate – not trying to change someone's mind, but really try and figure out ‘What don't I know about what you believe? What don't I know about the topic? And how can we communicate better?” Aaron Pratt Guest “I think what Leadership Montana has taught me and demonstrated to me is that I'm going into a conversation to learn something, not to teach something to somebody.” "I think there is a renewed interest and a renewed value proposition around what our families mean to us and a real recognition of that by our employers which is really refreshing and really different from what I've experienced in the  past." Darrel Hirsch Guest "Our goal seems to always be to try to win, and certainly there is a time and a place for that and that's a good thing [but] people need to stop trying to win and start to understand a lot more, and if you can do that, it really becomes habit forming, and it becomes really really interesting."

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 32: Dr. Jerry Evans This week's episode features Dr. Jerry Evans. Dr. Evans has taught Leadership Montana classes for over ten years. He is a professor in the College of Business at the University of Montana, and he is an expert instructor of leadership principles. Jerry talks about growing up in Swan Lake, his views on ethical decision making, his favorite leadership principles, and the spirit he strives to bring to his teaching. Jerry also tells us about his proudest moment over his long tenure with Leadership Montana, and how he believes our differences can be our strength. Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Dr. Jerry Evans Guest Jerry Evans was born in Great Falls and graduated from high school in Bigfork. His undergraduate degree is from the University of Providence, Great Falls, and he earned two master's degrees from Montana State University. Dr. Evans earned his Ph.D. from The Claremont Graduate University in the area of information processing and systems. He has served on the faculty of the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and the University of Nevada, Reno. He joined The University of Montana College of Business faculty in 1988, and has devoted most of his teaching, research, and publication activities to the areas of business information systems, business ethics, and organizational leadership. Additionally, Dr. Evans has consulted in businesses throughout the U.S. on topics such as negotiation, leadership, team building, conflict resolution, and quality management in service organizations. His current research focuses on resistance to change and leadership training. Jerry has served as a member of the board of directors of various corporations and foundations, including the Montana Chamber of Commerce, the Montana Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the Organizing Committee of Leadership Montana, and the Board of Governors of Leadership Montana.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 31: Mike Halligan In this episode, Eric speaks with Mike Halligan, Executive Director of the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation and graduate of the first class of Leadership Montana. Mike talks about enlisting in the military and leading soldiers in Vietnam at just 19 years old, and how the lessons he learned in Vietnam pushed him to a career in public policy. He tells listeners about serving for 11 terms in the Montana legislature and how he managed to work effectively across party lines.  We also hear about Mike's career advocating for children and families, his passion for leadership, the importance of listening to all voices in the public policy process, and much more. Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Mike Halligan Guest Mike Halligan was raised in Billings, Montana. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam as an infantry combat platoon leader with the 101st Airborne Division. In 1975, Mr. Halligan completed a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History and Political Science at the University of Montana. He received a Master's Degree in Public Administration in 1977, and graduated from the University of Montana School of Law in 1984. Mr. Halligan served in the Montana State Senate from 1980 to 2002 as the chairman of several legislative standing and interim committees. In the 1995 and 1997 legislative sessions, he served as the Minority Leader. After working as a deputy Missoula County Attorney from 1985 to 1990, Mr. Halligan operated a private family law practice from 1990 to 1999. He also served as the supervising attorney for the Montana Department of Justice, Child Protection Unit, from 1999 to 2002. He served as Director of Government and Corporate Relations for Washington Corporations from 2002 to 2021 and has been Executive Director of the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation since November of 2002.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 30: Joel Rosette In this episode, Chantel sits down with Joel Rosette, CEO of Rocky Boy Health Center and owner of Joel Rosette Law.  Joel talks about how the lessons he has learned in Leadership Montana relate to the lessons he has learned from his tribe and community. He also shares his hopes for the future of Rocky Boy Nation and tribal nations across Montana.  Finally, Joel talks about his passion for coaching the Box Elder Lady Bears basketball team, the joy of bringing his Leadership Montana class to visit Box Elder and learn about his home, leading a large health care organization through the pandemic, and more. Chantel Schieffer Host Chantel, Class of 2010 and Masters Class 2019 alumna, is also our President & CEO. An occasional host, she brings to Listen First Montana a deep knowledge of our alumni and the many ways they work to build a better Montana. Joel Rosette Guest Joel Rosette is the CEO of Rocky Boy Health Center. He received his Business Administration Degree with an emphasis in Management and Marketing from the University of Montana. Joel obtained his Juris Doctorate at the University of New Mexico School of Law with an emphasis in Indian Law. Joel is a graduate of Leadership Montana's Class if 2015, Masters Class of 2022, and serves as a member of the Indigenous Advisory Council. He is a member of the State Bar of Montana. Joel is the owner of Joel Rosette Law, PLLC, and MTN Leadership. He currently resides on the Rocky Boy Indian Reservation with his wife Bonnell and their three children.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 29: Anne Hughes In this episode, Eric sits down with Anne Hughes, Chief Operating Officer at Missoula County and member of the Leadership Montana Board of Governors.  Anne talks about her experience with heartache and loss, her love of science fiction, why she chooses to invest deeply in Leadership Montana, and what great friendship looks like to her.  Anne even explains why she enjoys working on the Missoula County budget and why she feels a budget is a "values document." Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Anne Hughes Guest Anne Hughes is the Chief Operating Officer for Missoula County. She has worked in federal and local government for 20 years and is committed to public service that reflects her values of growth, empathy, and humor. Anne was raised in Montana and is a proud Missoulian. She received her bachelor's of fine arts in theatre at the University of Idaho and her masters in public administration from the University of Montana. She currently serves on the Leadership Montana Board of Governors and on the MPA Alumni Advisory Council for the MPA program at UM. She mentors MPA students, cheerleads her colleagues and friends, and strives to do good work with kindness. She is married to Ted Hughes, a skilled fine arts, gallery, and museum professional and metal head. She enjoys growing flowers almost as much as she loves giving them away, hiking in the hills around Missoula, and going on adventures across the Northwest with her husband, her exceptional mom Carole, and her two dogs, Noodle and Rosie.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 27: Frank Garner In this episode, Eric speaks with Frank Garner, 4th term State Representative of House District 7 and former Kalispell Police Chief.  Frank discusses his thoughts on the current state of policing, how he approached his leadership role as police chief, and how he used the lessons from Leadership Montana during a one year stint training police in Afghanistan in 2005.  Frank also reflects on state politics, leadership, and the future of Montana.  Frank is a graduate of the inaugural class of Leadership Montana in 2005 and is passionate about leaving the world in a better place than he found it – or as he says in this episode, planting trees that will provide shade for people he will never meet. Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Frank Garner Guest Frank Garner was raised in Kalispell, Montana, where he graduated from Flathead High School and Flathead Valley Community College. He became a member of the Kalispell Police Department in 1986, where he worked in the patrol division. Frank served in a number of roles throughout his career, including as a County Drug Team Agent, Shift Supervisor, Detective, SWAT Team Leader, and in 1997 he was promoted to Chief of Police. As Chief of Police, Frank initiated an aggressive community policing philosophy that led to a number of beneficial programs, including Kalispell's Meeting on Meth, the Major Case Unit, the School Resource Officer Program, and the Police Advisory Council. After nearly nine years as Chief, Frank retired and took a position as a Police Advisor in Afghanistan, where he served as a mentor to Afghan Police, a police trainer at the Jalalabad Regional Training Center, and later as the Professional Police Mentor Supervisor in the Afghan capital of Kabul. Frank went on to serve as the Chief of Security for the local hospital and then transitioned into private law enforcement and security consulting. Frank has a long record of public service that includes membership in the Evergreen Lions Club, The Kalispell Rotary Club, and Big Brothers and Sisters.   Frank is now in his fourth term as a Montana State Representative for House District 7 and currently serves as Chair of the Montana ARPA Health Commission as well as serving on the Health and Human Services interim budget committee.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 27: Amy Kellogg In this episode Chantel travels to Kalispell, MT to speak with Amy Kellogg.  Amy is the former chair of Leadership Montana's Board of Governors and the 2022 recipient of Leadership Montana's most prestigious award, the Tom Scott Award for Excellence.  In this episode, Amy talks about how she became the first female bike messenger in the city of Philadelphia, her experience working with Dr. Anthony Fauci, her experience leading in the manufacturing industry during the pandemic, and much more. Chantel Schieffer Host Chantel, Class of 2010 and Masters Class 2019 alumna, is also our President & CEO. An occasional host, she brings to Listen First Montana a deep knowledge of our alumni and the many ways they work to build a better Montana. Amy Kellogg Guest Entrepreneur, world explorer, Philly's 1st female bike messenger. What excites her? Leadership, connection, F&B (emphasis on the B), & travel. Amy's passions include cultivating connections, relationship building, and leadership development and she uses her core values of exploration, connection, and curiosity to help guide her in both her professional and personal worlds.  Amy serves as Chair of the Montana Agriculture Development Council. She also serves as a Montana Ambassador and is a member of the Frontier Angel Fund.  She is a former Chair of the Leadership Montana Governing Board as well as the Chair of the organization's Alumni Committee. Amy completed the Leadership Montana Flagship and Masters programs in 2013 and 2020. In 2021 she obtained her certificate in the Executive Women Leadership course from Cornell University.   Along with her husband, Amy owns Simply406, where they manufacture Country Pasta and Tipu's Chai. Prior to her move to Montana in 2004, she worked in pharmaceutical marketing and strategic development for clients such as Pfizer, Bristol Meyers, Genentech and others with a focus on oncology and women's health.  Summer will find Amy on her SUP exploring the pristine waters of Montana. Winter will find her chasing the Northern Lights or shredding the ski slopes. Amy's year-round activity is sampling fine cocktails. Her suitcase is always packed for the next adventure with her husband and she rocks her role as a stepmother to three kids and minion to her nutty cat, Princess Noelle.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 26: Kelly Cresswell In this episode, Eric speaks with Kelly Cresswell, executive director of Reach Higher Montana and current chair of the Leadership Montana Board of Governors.  Kelly tells us about the amazing work of Reach Higher Montana and describes their work to empower youth across Montana to find and succeed in career paths that fit their interests and lives. We also hear why Kelly loves working with the young adults as they approach and enter the critical life stage following high school.  Kelly also tells us about being a “card-iologist” and why she loves telling people positive things she notices about them, and much more. Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Kelly Cresswell Guest Curious, creative, and collaborative, Kelly is focused on supporting Montana's students as they prepare for their futures and pursue their aspirations. In her role as Executive Director of Reach Higher Montana, she leads a talented team of student advocates whose mission is to help students strategically pursue educational opportunities. Outside of work, Kelly's curiosity and creativity are nurtured by time spent outdoors with her husband, Don, and her two Corgis, Cooper and Sherman. A recent empty-nester, Kelly is tremendously proud of her three children: Rex, Lane, and Sloane; and head over heels in love with her grandson, Owen.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 25: Bruce Whittenberg In this episode, Chantel speaks with the founding Executive Director of Leadership Montana, Bruce Whittenberg.  Bruce gives listeners an inside look into the earliest stages of Leadership Montana's formation including the original vision for how a leadership training program could positively impact people and communities across Montana.  Bruce also tells Chantel about his long tenure as Executive Director of the Montana Historical Society and why capturing and sharing Montana's history is so important to him.  Finally, Bruce talks about the significance of receiving Leadership Montana's most prestigious award, the Tom Scott Award for Leadership Excellence. Chantel Schieffer Host Chantel, Class of 2010 and Masters Class 2019 alumna, is also our President & CEO. An occasional host, she brings to Listen First Montana a deep knowledge of our alumni and the many ways they work to build a better Montana. Bruce Whittenberg Guest Bruce was the founding Executive Director of Leadership Montana, a statewide effort to develop a sustainable network of leaders who share a commitment to the future of the state. Prior to that, Bruce was publisher of the Helena Independent Record from 1993-1998, and publisher of the Billings Gazette from 1998-2000. His newspaper career spanned 25 years in three states. He recently retired as the Director of the Montana Historical Society. Bruce's long record of public service most recently includes the Board of Directors of the Friends of Montana PBS, the Board of Directors of the Myrna Loy Center in Helena, the Lewis and Clark Library Foundation and the Burton K. Wheeler Center for Public Policy.  He currently serves as executive director for The Greater Montana Foundation. Bruce has two sons. Jake is a graduate of Montana State University and Emmy Award-winning broadcast news journalist for KING5 NBC television in Seattle. Jonathan is also graduate of Montana State University in graphic design and works for Spark R & D in Bozeman, MT. Bruce is also blessed with a beautiful granddaughter, Lula and grandson, Oliver, and two wonderful daughters-in-law, Tara and Beth.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 24: Deb Vandeberg In this episode, Eric speaks with Deb Vandeberg, vice chair of the Leadership Montana Board of Governors.  Deb talks about growing up in her beloved hometown of Havre and what she learned from being on crutches from ages 6 to 11.  She shares stories about working in New York City, starting a successful business in Havre, and running the Havre Chamber of Commerce for over 20 years.  Deb also tells listeners about her role on the Leadership Montana Organizing Committee in 2003, and how she advocated for rural Montana throughout that process. Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Deb Vandeberg Guest

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 23: Lanny Hubbard For Episode 2, Chantel Schieffer speaks with Lanny Hubbard.  Lanny gives his thoughts on the difference between management and leadership, how he believes we can find better ways to collaborate, and he unpacks his belief that great leadership consists of connection, curiosity and courage.  As the most recent recipient of the Leadership Montana Tom Scott Award for Excellence in Leadership, Lanny describes what that award means to him and the impact he hopes to have on the people he leads.  Lanny also tells a few stories about being a rock'n roll musician in the 70's and how his experience as a musician shaped how he connects with others. Chantel Schieffer Host Chantel, Class of 2010 and Masters Class 2019 alumna, is also our President & CEO. An occasional host, she brings to Listen First Montana a deep knowledge of our alumni and the many ways they work to build a better Montana. Lanny Hubbard Guest Lanny is a native of Washington state with deep roots in Northwestern Montana. He is an avid sailor, fly fisher, and keyboard player. He and his wife, Bergetta, have two children. He has served the Montana State Fund in various capacities, including his current position as President/CEO and recently announced his retirement after serving 19 years in this role.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 22: Chuck Winn To kick off Season 2, Eric speaks with Chuck Winn, Assistant City Manager in Bozeman, Montana.  Chuck tells us about his 37-year career with the city of Bozeman, which included starting as a 20 year-old with the fire department and later becoming fire chief.  In his own unique and fun way, Chuck also recites poems and children's books like Winnie the Pooh and the Velveteen Rabbit to give listeners a look into how he makes sense of his past experiences and how he understands what is worthwhile to spend time and energy on. Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Chuck Winn Guest Chuck is a graduate of the 2015 Leadership Montana Flagship Program, a graduate of the 2019 Leadership Montana Masters Class, and a Gracious Space Certified Trainer.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 21: Season 1 Recap In this episode, Eric looks back over our first twenty episodes in Season 1 and pulls the common threads of connection, family, listening, and more. Chantel Schieffer Co-Host Chantel, Class of 2010 and Masters Class 2019 alumna, is also our President & CEO. An occasional host, she brings to Listen First Montana a deep knowledge of our alumni and the many ways they work to build a better Montana. Eric Halverson Co-Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 20: Eric Halverson In this final episode of Listen First Montana Season 1, Chantel flips the script on co-host Eric Halverson and makes him the interviewee. Chantel asks Eric about growing up in Montana, why he is passionate about Early Childhood development, what it means to him to "stand on the shoulders of giants," and much more. Chantel Schieffer Host Chantel, Class of 2010 and Masters Class 2019 alumna, is also our President & CEO. An occasional host, she brings to Listen First Montana a deep knowledge of our alumni and the many ways they work to build a better Montana. Eric Halverson Guest Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 19: Tony Brockman In this episode, Eric speaks with Tony Brockman, a media expert and Leadership Montana graduate who spends an extraordinary amount of time and energy serving his community. Tony discusses why he invests so deeply in his community, the story of how the Kalispell Core and Rail Project came to be, his powerful personal story of “countless contradictions and endless optimism,” and much more. Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Tony Brockman Guest Tony Brockman was born and raised in the Flathead. A graduate of the University of Montana, he has focused his attention on local and state endeavors, notably economic development. In 2014, Tony received an appointment to the Flathead County Economic Development Authority, and is intricately involved in the Kalispell Core & Rail Redevelopment Project, a nationally recognized multi-faceted joint effort between Flathead County EDA and the City of Kalispell to redevelopment and revitalize Kalispell's Core Area.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 18: Kyle Waterman In this episode Eric speaks with Kalispell City Councilman Kyle Waterman.  Kyle talks about his experience as a leader on the Flathead City-County Health Board during the worst stretches of the COVID-19 pandemic, the resources and opportunities that underpin the rapid growth of Kalispell's economy, why he returned to Montana after spending 20 years of his adult life outside his home state, why mental health issues are deeply important to him, and much more. Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Kyle Waterman Guest Waterman was born in Montana and returned to Kalispell ten years ago. He's been involved in the community through social services and as an advocate for local solutions on Kalispell City Council.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 17: Jim Bliss In this episode, Eric sits down with Jim Bliss in Kalispell, MT. They talk about Jim's story of founding and growing multiple businesses, and how Leadership Montana transformed his approach to relationships both personally and professionally. Jim also details why he wants to be remembered as a champion of kindness, along with his vision for securing the future of Montana. Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Jim Bliss Guest Jim Bliss is the President/CEO of TriState Restaurant Supply and lives in Kalispell. He is a 2010 graduate of Leadership Montana's flagship class and the 2019 Masters Class. Jim received the 2020 Leadership Montana Alumni Service Award for his dedication and loyalty to the organization.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 16: Mary Stranahan In this episode, Eric travels to Arlee, MT to talk with Dr. Mary Stranahan.  They talk about Mary's work as a rural physician on the Flathead reservation, her vision as founder of both The High Stakes Foundation and Good Works Ventures, and her thoughts on the racism she witnessed in the 60s compared to what she sees today. Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Mary Stranahan Guest Mary Stranahan is the founder of Goodworks Ventures and the High Stakes Foundation. As a result of attending a Play Big Session about a decade ago, she made the decision to leverage her resources to support the people making a positive change in Montana. Her focus is on triple bottom line investments in the for profit arena and rural economic development, leadership development and environmental policy issues in the nonprofit arena. A passionate lover of place, she has a wicked backspin on her tennis game.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 15: Chris Warden In this episode, Eric visits with Chris Warden, VP of Technology for Washington Companies, about leading through change, how thoughtful leaders communicate with authenticity, and the foundation of great dialogues. As the current Chair of Leadership Montana’s Board of Governors, we are inspired every day by Chris’s insights on life and leadership. Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Chris Warden Guest Chris is the Vice President of Technology for Washington Companies, a shared service organization that provides business services to the Washington Companies, a group of privately held companies owned by industrialist Dennis R. Washington. He is responsible for helping simplify, standardize and source common business functions and for providing each company with strategic advice on how to best use technology to improve the business. Born and raised in Great Falls, Chris is a graduate of the University of Montana with a degree in Business Administration. Prior to the Washington Companies, Chris worked for fifteen years in Silicon Valley for companies in the semiconductor, software, consulting and venture capital industries. He is married to Lori Warden and has two boys, Finn and Ash. They all happily live in Missoula.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 14: Juanita Vero In this episode, Eric visits the E Bar L Ranch in Greenough to interview Juanita Vero – conservation champion, Missoula County Commissioner, and all around joyful person. Juanita tells us how working her family ranch has shaped her leadership style and why she jumped into elective politics with no previous experience. They also dig into the urban/rural divide in Montana and Juanita’s family history of reckoning with multiracial marriage in a time not long ago. Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Juanita Vero Guest Juanita Vero is a fourth-generation partner of the E Bar L Ranch in Greenough. In addition to running her family business, she has served on numerous community conservation-focused boards and committees, including as chair of Montana Conservation Voters, Missoula County Open Lands Committee, Big Blackfoot Chapter Trout Unlimited, Swan Valley Connections and Sunset School Board. Juanita has a bachelor’s degree in English from Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon. She enjoys horses, snowboarding and backcountry wandering after game with her husband and his llamas. She used to play lacrosse, rugby and ultimate frisbee but is now relegated to spending more time on her yoga mat. In June 2019, Juanita was appointed to the Missoula County Commission to fill a vacated seat and was elected to continue that service in November 2020.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 13: Misty Kuhl In this episode, Chantel visits with Misty Kuhl, newly appointed as the Director of Indian Affairs for Governor Gianforte. Misty shares her lifelong work to support education and economic opportunity for Montana’s Indigenous populations. Chantel Schieffer Host Chantel, Class of 2010 and Masters Class 2019 alumna, is also our President & CEO. An occasional host, she brings to Listen First Montana a deep knowledge of our alumni and the many ways they work to build a better Montana. Misty Kuhl Guest Misty was born in Havre and is a member the Fort Belknap Indian Community. As a first generation college graduate, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Services (Cum Laude) from Montana State University-Billings. Misty spent several years working with tribal communities in New Mexico as a probation officer, and then nationally as a Director with the Native American Alliance Foundation. Following her work with NAAF, she lived out her love for the outdoors and was an outdoor guide for several years, eventually taking over Outdoor Programs for Kirtland Air Force Base. She especially loves paddling whitewater and trail running. Misty is a champion for diversity in outdoor recreation and loves helping people get outside. Entrepreneurship opportunities in the outdoor industry brought her “home” to Montana. Being back in Montana ignited a renewed passion for serving Indian Country. Previous to her current role as Director of Indian Affairs for Governor Gianforte, Misty was the Coordinator for Native American Programming and Outreach at Rocky Mountain College, and before that she served as Tribal Liaison and Field Representative for then-Congressman Gianforte. Misty lives in the Billings area with her husband Matthew.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 12: Kris Carpenter In this episode, Eric talks with Billings business owner and community builder Kris Carpenter about her love of place, community, joy, and fly fishing. Kris shares with us some keys to successful business ownership and management, along with her ideas for building a better Billings, but don’t expect to learn the locations of her favorite fishing spots. Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Kris Carpenter Guest Kris Carpenter’s perfect day is being on any stream in Montana with a fly rod in hand. She loves to learn and continue to seek out new products, new ideas, and inspiration to bring back home to Billings. Her passions are her family (daughter Kinsey, son Rob, and daughter-in-law Mariah), fly-fishing, community service, and business. Her businesses include: Sanctuary Spa & Salon (1998), The Joy of Living (gift store) west end Billings (2010), and the newest project with her son and daughter-in-law, Black Dog Coffee House (2017). Kris was born and raised in Billings. She loves Billings because it’s a community full of so many people who come together to get things done. She enjoys being a part of these organizations and helping them make a difference in her city! Kris was a member of the Leadership Montana Class of 2018 and 2019 Masters Class.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 11: Samuel Enemy-Hunter In this episode, Chantel talks with actor, artist, and activist Samuel Enemy-Hunter about making history in the Supreme Court, the deep meaning of family, and why leaders “show up”, especially when it’s hard. Chantel Schieffer Host Chantel, Class of 2010 and Masters Class 2019 alumna, is also our President & CEO. An occasional host, she brings to Listen First Montana a deep knowledge of our alumni and the many ways they work to build a better Montana. Samuel Enemy-Hunter Guest Samuel Enemy-Hunter (Conquers-His-Enemies) is an enrolled member of the Apsáalooke Tribe. He was raised in the town of Lodge Grass on the Crow Nation. He is a member of the Greasy Mouth Clan and a Child of the Big Lodge Clan. He is a traditional Two-Spirit person and a Sun Dancer. His Paternal Great Grandfather is Chief Enemy-Hunter and his Maternal Great Grandfather is Robert Yellowtail. Samuel graduated from Little Big Horn College with an A.A. in Crow History & Language and graduated from the University of Montana with a B.A. in English/Creative Writing with an emphasis in Non-Fiction & Poetry.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 10: Leonard Malin In this episode, Eric visits with Leonard Malin about what it means to “do the work” of understanding and respecting cultural differences. We know Leonard as a big-hearted human working to promote inclusivity in the many communities he influences. Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Leonard Malin Guest Leonard says: “I am a husband, Dad to my three semi-grown kids, papa to my grandson, and companion to my little dog Sam. I grew up on the Montana Hi-Line, in Malta. I love to read, I love to learn, I love music. I also love to get outside and soak in this Big Sky Country. I earned a degree in accounting from Montana State - Go Cats!!! I have worked as a CPA, a banker, in accounting and finance for a mining and manufacturing company. I worked for a time at the Tumbleweed Runaway Program, and a brief stint in the craft spirits industry. I just recently joined the Mission West Community Development Partners, in Ronan, Montana, as the Business Development Center Director.”

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 9: The 2021 Montana Legislature In this special episode of Listen First Montana, Chantel and Eric visit the State Capitol in Helena and visit with several Leadership Montana alumni who work in the Legislature as elected members or government relations executives. We will hear from Democrats and Republicans about the ways that they listen to understand and to seek common ground. This is a timely view inside the marble halls of our center of government featuring Senator Duane Ankney of Colstrip, Representative Alice Buckley of Bozeman, Senator Tom Jacobson of Great Falls, Representative Terry Moore of Billings, former Representative Ray Shaw of Sheridan, and government relations executives Melissa Shannon and Jennifer Hensley. Eric Halverson Host Eric, a graduate of Leadership Montana Class of 2016 and Masters Class 2019, leads this project with an unmatched curiosity and thirst for learning how each interviewee leans into leading. Eric magically brings to life the story underneath the words and weaves together a series that perfectly illustrates the meaning and value of listening deeply. Originally from Billings, Eric currently resides in Missoula where he serves as the Communications and Development Administrator for Partnership Health Center. Chantel Schieffer Host Chantel, Class of 2010 and Masters Class 2019 alumna, is also our President & CEO. An occasional host, she brings to Listen First Montana a deep knowledge of our alumni and the many ways they work to build a better Montana. 2021 Montana Legislature Guests Senator Duane Ankney of Colstrip, Representative Alice Buckley of Bozeman, Senator Tom Jacobson of Great Falls, Representative Terry Moore of Billings, former Representative Ray Shaw of Sheridan, and government relations executives Melissa Shannon and Jennifer Hensley.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 8: Dusty Eaton In this episode, Dusty and Chantel talk about creating impact, investing in Montana communities, raising children with special needs, and just being kind. Chantel Schieffer Host Chantel, Class of 2010 and Masters Class 2019 alumna, is also our President & CEO. An occasional host, she brings to Listen First Montana a deep knowledge of our alumni and the many ways they work to build a better Montana. Dusty Eaton Guest As CEO and Principal of A&E Design, Dusty Eaton knows a thing or two about the power of great design in our lives. Whether it is a building or beer can, Dusty and his team bring their leadership skills of “failing fast” to every project.

LISTEN FIRST MONTANA Listen first. It is what all great leaders do. Episode 7: Marci McLean In this episode, Chantel visits with Marci McLean about bridging racial divides in Montana. Chantel Schieffer Host Chantel, Class of 2010 and Masters Class 2019 alumna, is also our President & CEO. An occasional host, she brings to Listen First Montana a deep knowledge of our alumni and the many ways they work to build a better Montana. Marci McLean Guest As Executive Director of Western Native Voice, Marci leads efforts to strengthen Indigenous communities and brings her perspectives as a Blackfeet Piikuni, two-spirit woman to countless important conversations across Montana. In this conversation, Marci and Chantel explore how a deeper understanding of cultures can lead to building a better Montana.