Recorded claims from Great Falls, Montana, hosted by two people who know some dam stuff, but are by no means experts. Mari and Rebecca will share Montana’s Greatest Dam Town with you weekly, sometimes even giving you actual experts, and maybe, just maybe, one of them will be a dam (hydroelectric power) expert! We know you’ll fall in love with Great Falls, Montana, just like we have.
Rebecca Engum and Marisela Hazzard
We're No Dam Experts is back with Bryon Gustafson—our new Outdoors Insider! In this episode, Bryon joins hosts Rebecca and Shannon to introduce an epic new offering: the Backcountry Immersion Experience. Think survival skills meets Montana's wild beauty. From friction fires and shelter building to predator awareness and mental resilience, this isn't your average outdoor course. With top-tier instructors—including survival legend (and seven-time Naked and Afraid participant) Laura Zerra, SERE trainers, Marine Scout Snipers, and combat veterans—you'll gain the skills (and mindset) to truly thrive in the wild. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just curious about the wilderness, this episode will leave you inspired to get outside, learn something new, and connect with nature. Sign up or learn more about the BACKCOUNTRY IMMERSION: https://www.mtvetprogram.org/backcountryimmersion Don't know what we're talking about when we say Naked & Afraid? Here's an explanation: https://www.discovery.com/shows/naked-and-afraid
What's it like playing summer baseball under Montana's big sky? Hosts Rebecca and Shannon chat with Great Falls Voyagers players Josh Collett and Danny Galvan about ballpark life, team culture, and what makes playing in Great Falls unforgettable. A fun, behind-the-scenes look at minor league baseball!
In this episode of We're No Dam Experts, historian Ken Robison joins Rebecca and Shannon to crack open the stories behind Lost Great Falls—his latest book that uncovers the Electric City's most colorful characters and long-gone landmarks. From Charles M. Russell's favorite saloons to the jazz-filled Ozark Club and the towering Big Stack, Ken brings forgotten Great Falls history back to life. Want more? Catch Ken in person for a free presentation and book signing at The History Museum on Saturday, June 14 at 1 p.m. in the Ozark Club event room. It's your chance to dive deeper into the wild, weird, and wonderful past of Great Falls. https://www.kenrobisonhistory.com/fort-benton-tales
Rebecca and Shannon welcome legendary photographer Robert Osborn and colleague Rheanna Menges to We're No Dam Experts. From launching BMX Action magazine in the 1970s to documenting Montana's ranch life and Native communities, Osborn's work spans over 70 years and is now featured at the C.M. Russell Museum. Tune in for stories behind the photos and the impact of a visual storyteller who helped shape both BMX culture and Montana history. Robert Osborn: https://www.robertosborn.com/about CM Russell Museum: https://cmrussell.org/exhibitions-2/
This week, Rebecca and Shannon sit down with Dr. Clem Pellett to talk about the wild true story behind his book Murder on Montana's Hi-Line and upcoming motion pictures Pellett. We get into how Clem accidentally uncovered the whole thing, became a private investigator, and helped track the guy down. Plus, we chat about the upcoming movie Pellett and his social media mission, The Pellett Project. More about Clem's journey, Murder on Montana's Hi-Line, and the book tour: https://pellettproject.com Check out The Pellett Project on Facebook & Instagram.
How Not to Get Rescued in Montana: Outdoor Safety Tips with Deputy Logan Livingston On this episode of We're No Dam Experts, Rebecca and Shannon are joined by Cascade County Sheriff's Deputy and head of Search and Rescue, Logan Livingston, to talk about something every adventurer needs to know: how to stay safe while enjoying Montana's great outdoors. Whether you're hiking the Little Belt Mountains, floating Belt Creek, exploring the Sluice Boxes, or just trying not to become a Search and Rescue statistic, this episode is packed with practical tips, cautionary tales, and a few laughs along the way. Find out what not to do in the wild, how rescues really go down in Cascade County, and why planning ahead can be the key to your best — and safest — Montana experience. Listen now — because needing a rescue is not the kind of adventure story you want to bring home.
The countdown is on! The 6th annual Mimosa Showdown hits Great Falls on Saturday, May 17, 2025, featuring a record-breaking 25 different mimosas—and we're here to help you prepare like a pro. In this episode of We're No Dam Experts, Rebecca and Shannon welcome Caylee Jones, a Showdown original and costume mastermind, to share her secrets for making the most of the day. From strategic sipping and pacing tips to planning your route and picking the perfect outfit, Caylee's got the inside scoop on how to turn the Mimosa Showdown into a full-on adventure. Whether you're going for the flavor, the fun, or the festive fashion, this episode will get you ready for one of Great Falls' most anticipated events. Hit play to hear how to maximize the experience and try as many mimosas as your taste buds can handle (responsibly, of course). Mimosa Showdown: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/mimosa-showdown/
Glacier National Park's 2025 vehicle reservation system is here — and if you're planning a trip, Rebecca and Shannon have you covered. In this episode of We're No Dam Experts, we walk through the key details: which areas require reservations, how to snag one, and what's new this year. Then we make our case (again) for why the east side of Glacier, closest to Great Falls, is hands-down the best side — with easier access, fewer crowds, and epic spots like Many Glacier and Two Medicine. Tune in for travel tips, local insights Glacier National Park: https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/vehicle-reservations.htm Recreation.gov: https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/10087086?tab=fees Many Glacier Shuttle Service: https://www.nps.gov/glac/learn/news/glacier-park-to-provide-limited-access-to-many-glacier-during-2025-swiftcurrent-construction.htm Glacier Road Conditions: https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/directions.htm Alerts from Glacier: https://www.nps.gov/glac/learn/news/timed-entry-vehicle-reservations-open-february-13.htm
In this episode of We're No Dam Experts, Rebecca and Shannon dive into what it really means to Leave No Trace in Montana. Whether you're hiking near Great Falls, camping under big skies, or just out enjoying nature, they share simple, smart ways to protect the landscapes we all love. You've heard of being street smart—now it's time to get wilderness wise. Tune in for Leave No Trace tips, real talk on responsible recreation, and plenty of laughs as Rebecca and Shannon show you how to enjoy Montana's wild spaces without leaving a mark. Want to keep Montana the Last Best Place? Start here. Learn more at visitmt.com/leave-no-trace. Visit Great Falls: visitgreatfallsmontana.org Follow Visit Great Falls on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for more great content and updates! Subscribe now so you never miss an episode. If you're enjoying the show, we'd love to hear from you—rate, review, and share with your friends to help others find us too!
Could Bigfoot really be wandering around Central Montana? Rebecca and Shannon dive into the mystery with guest Bridger Lutz, a local Bigfoot researcher who's spent years collecting stories, studying sightings, and searching the Great Falls area for signs of Sasquatch. From suspicious sounds in the woods to tracks that can't be explained, this episode explores the legends—and possible truths—behind one of Montana's most mysterious creatures. Tune in for laughs, local lore, and a whole lot of Bigfoot talk. Visit Great Falls: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org Bigfoot Map: https://www.bigfootmap.com CM Russell Museum: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/cm-russell-museum/ Humanities Montana: https://www.humanitiesmontana.org Topics Covered: – Bigfoot sightings in Great Falls, Montana – Interview with Bigfoot researcher Bridger Lutz – Central Montana cryptid activity – Sasquatch stories and local legends – What it's like to research Bigfoot
Rebecca and Shannon sit down with KD Moore and Dexter Williams Jr., two players in their first season with The Electric, Montana's only professional basketball team. The conversation dives into what it's like joining a second-year team, adjusting to life in Montana, and playing in The Basketball League (TBL)—a league focused on delivering a world-class basketball experience to local communities. Whether you're a longtime fan or just curious about Montana's place in the pro basketball world, this episode offers a laid-back, behind-the-scenes look at the team, the league, and the people bringing fresh energy to the court. https://thegreatfallselectric.com
In this episode of We're No Dam Experts, Rebecca and Shannon sit down with artist Ellyse Kieliszewski, who made the journey from Arkansas to Great Falls, Montana. Ellyse shares how her art has evolved since moving to Montana, including her debut experience at Western Art Week. Ellyse discusses how the stunning Montana landscape continues to inspire her work. Ellyse's artwork will be featured this summer at the Great Falls Farmers' Market, and she gives us the scoop on how you can find and purchase her pieces. Whether you're an art lover or simply looking for something unique to take home, this episode offers an inside look at the local art scene and one artist's journey of growth and creativity. How to find Ellyse's work: Instagram: ellyses_studio_arts Facebook: Ellyse's Studio Arts Website: ellysesstudioarts.com Email: ellysesstudioarts@gmail.com
On this episode, Rebecca and Shannon talk all things live music in Great Falls this summer. From the Downtown Summer Jam to the Montana State Fair, they break down the newly released concert lineups and events for every music lover. Whether you're into country, rock, or something else, they've got you covered on where to find the best shows in town. Tune in for the inside scoop on summer fun in Great Falls! Find all the music event details: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org
Rebecca and Shannon chat with Jan and Stacey from the Great Falls Genealogy Society! In this episode, they dive into the society's 50-year history, the fascinating details you can uncover about your ancestors, and how genealogy can be more exciting than you ever imagined. Whether you're just starting your research or already deep into your family tree, this conversation is full of insights, tips, and a few fun stories along the way. https://gfgenealogy.org
Rebecca and Shannon dive into the details of planning and executing the inaugural Feisty Women of Great Falls project! Shannon shares never-before-released information about producing the Feisty Women of Great Falls 1.0 documentary and the women featured. Feisty Women of Great Falls 1.0 is live on the Visit Great Falls YouTube channel! WATCH Feisty Women of Great Falls 1.0: https://youtu.be/D_f0HTzhrS4?si=Megv_dWmQ5urjVDe Check out the Feisty Women of Great Falls exhibit at The History Museum & Research Center now! More about The History Museum: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/the-history-museum/
Rebecca and Shannon chat with Leah Noel Benski about the 10th anniversary of the Celebration of Native Plains Artists as part of Western Art Week. Hear about the amazing artists, a fashion show, and so much more! Celebration of Native Plains Artists: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/celebration-of-native-plains-artists/ Western Art Week: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/western-art-week/
Jessica Nebel and Chris Warden from the C.M. Russell Museum are here to give Rebecca and Shannon the inside scoop on the historic Russell Auction during this year's Western Art Week! Celebrating 57 years, the auction will feature over 125 remarkable pieces, including 20+ iconic works by the legendary Charles M. Russell. Great Falls transforms into the Western Art Capital of the World every March. The longstanding event centers around the birthday of famed cowboy artist Charlie Russell's birthday. Western Art Week is March 19-23, 2025. Western Art Week: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/western-art-week/ C.M. Russell Museum: https://cmrussell.org/experience/2025-the-russell/
The artistic legend of King Kuka continues at Western Art Week in Great Falls, Montana. On this episode, Rebecca and Shannon talk with Kqun Kuka, an artist in her own right, and Andy Keller of First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park about the Annual Art Show & Reception as part of Western Art Week. https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/first-peoples-buffalo-jump-state-park-art-show/ Full Western Art Week schedule: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/western-art-week/
Get ready to pedal! There's a new way to see Great Falls! Hop on SID's Pedal Trolley for historic tours or a historical tour! Sandy joins Rebecca and Shannon to talk about the newest addition to Great Falls and how you can hop on the pedal trolley! Learn more and get tickets: https://www.sidspedaltrolleytours.com
Rebecca and Shannon talk with entrepreneur and fashionista Erica Ferrin about her beautiful boutique in downtown Great Falls! Erica shares her journey from styling hair to selecting styles to carry in her store. You'll also hear about the highly coveted E necklace! Erica's business Grae + Co online: https://www.graeandcomt.com
Rebecca and Shannon talk with the founder, owner, and creative mind of the apparel brand Hometana! Shirstie shares her origin story and journey from traveling the country working for a reality show to designing her first t-shirt. Hometana is a must-stop location on your Great Falls vacation! Hometana: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/hometana/
Shelly Walker's talents and creativity are reflected in her scenic art and set design, as well as in pasta! Rebecca and Shannon chat with this Great Falls native about her work on movie sets and more! Shelly Walker's IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13039766/
A new year brings new announcements. Rebecca and Shannon share exciting new businesses and experience opportunities on the way to Great Falls in 2025. For things to do anytime in Great Falls, check out visitgreatfallsmontana.org.
Pretend you're Lewis and Clark (but with modern amenities and the ability to stop the journey whenever you'd like)! There's a new app that allows you to go on your own mission and join the Corps of Discovery's journey through Great Falls. Shannon, along with a special guest host, talks with Carol Bronson and Duane Buchi about Agents of Discovery! The Agents of Discovery app is available now on the App Store and Google Play.
Happy New Year from Great Falls! Even though Rebecca and Shannon have lived in and loved Great Falls for a long time, there are still some things they haven't done with the Electric City. On this episode, they break down their Top 5 lists of things to experience in 2025! visitgreatfallsmontana.org
Trying to keep the family entertained? We've got a great list of fun options to explore this holiday season and beyond! Need itinerary filler during your trip? Check. Need to get visiting family out and about for a bit? Check. Rebecca and Shannon chat about their favorites. Things to do: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/things-to-do/
Santa! We know him! Rebecca and Shannon chatted with the delightful and hilarious Foss brothers about donating this year's city Christmas tree. Bruce and Steve share what led their family to donate the tree and about holiday season traditions, including helping out Old Saint Nick! Plan your trip to Great Falls: visitgreatfallsmontana.org
Every January, Great Falls plays host to the PRCA Circuit Finals (we're kind of a big deal)! Rebecca and Shannon talk about this high-action annual event that heats up in January! Montana Pro Rodeo Circuit Finals: January 9-11, 2025 Learn more: https://www.prorodeomontana.com Book your stay in Great Falls: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-category/lodging-hotel/
Great Falls is a great place to be during the holiday season! Rebecca and Shannon are breaking down all fun holiday happenings this December! Christmas Stroll on December 6th in Downtown Great Falls Trim the Tree at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park on December 6th The Arts of Christmas at Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art on December 6th & 7th Christmas Solstice Art & Craft Show at the Holiday Village Mall on December 7th & 8th Christmas with the Great Falls Symphony at the Mansfield on December 8th Last Chance Christmas Bazaar at Montana ExpoPark on December 14th Kids Secret Shopping Day & Tree Trimming at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center on December 14th Holiday Open House at The History Museum on December 14th Candy Cane Lane at Jaycee Park on December 14th Brunch with Santa at the Sip N Dip on December 15th Holiday Sing-Along at the Sip N Dip on December 22nd and 23rd …and more! Keep up with all the holiday happenings at visitgreatfallsmontana.org.
Great Falls is home to Montana's largest dry goods store! On this episode, Rebecca and Shannon have a conversation with the owner and creator of Dragonfly Dry Goods. Dragonfly Dry Goods is located at 504 Central Avenue in downtown Great Falls. Dragonfly Dry Goods: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/dragonfly-dry-goods/
We're following in Opera's footsteps and realizing our favorites list! Rebecca and Shannon pick their top 5 Great Falls' experiences. We want to hear from you! Send us your top 5 list! DM us on Facebook or Instagram, email Shannon at shannon@visitgreatfalls.org, give Carol a call at 406-761-4436, or mail your list to us at: 15 Overlook Drive Great Falls, MT 59405 More about Great Falls: www.visitgreatfallsmontana.org
This is a special Veterans Day edition of We're No Dam Experts. Rebecca and Shannon talk with Donna Winters (volunteer) and Renee Phillips of Highland Cemetery about a fascinating effort to identify unmarked graves at the historic cemetery. Learn about Donna's investigative work at the cemetery. Highland Cemetery: https://highlandcemetery.org
From coffee to cocktails, Rebecca and Shannon are breaking down the Top 10 Drinks to Drink in Great Falls, plus a few other honorable mentions! Cheers to these tasty and unique creations! Drinks in Great Falls: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-category/drink/
We're No Dam Experts: True Crime Edition. Get ready for some spooky tales on this episode! Megan Sanford with The History Museum has compiled a decade of research to create the "Grim Tales of Great Falls," including everything from a ransom note to a box of bones. Take a self-guided tour of the locations where these stories happened! Goodbye Goldie: Rosebud Alley, 217 1/2 1st Alley South Walter Holmes' freight accident: F.J. Giles & Co, 217 2nd Avenue South Dave Smith last seen: corner of 1st Avenue South and 2nd Street South Box of bones first found: Murphy Maclay Building, 7 2nd Street South Box of bones second found: Bach Cory Building, 103 Central Avenue Inspiration for baby's ransom: Conrad Bank, 324 Central Avenue Murdered husband: Davenport Hotel, 518 1/2 Central Avenue James Wilber hangs himself in jail: 311 3rd Avenue South Pick up a list with a map (keep in mind some addresses/buildings have changed) from The History Museum or our office at 15 Overlook Drive in Great Falls, Montana. The History Museum: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/the-history-museum/
Great Falls is the final stop for a uniquely vibrant exhibit. Willem Volkersz: The View From Here will be displayed at Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art through January 25th, 2025. On this episode, Rebecca and Shannon chat with The Square's Sarah Justice and Nicole Evans about the neon and paint-by-number-style installation. An artist talk and reception will be held at Paris Gibson Square on Friday, October 25th, 2024, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Willem Vokersz: http://willemvolkersz.com Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art: https://www.the-square.org
Our Maker's Series continues with a look at a longstanding art form that reflects the American West - saddle making! Rebecca and Shannon chat with Grizzly Saddlery owner Jeff Gollehon about saddle-making school, his love for leather, and the artistry of his work. Grizzly Saddlery: https://www.grizzlysaddlery.com/aboutus.html
Where can you grab a drink while also checking out historic exhibits? The Cowboy's Bar and Museum! On this episode, Rebecca and Shanon talk with Larry Gebhart and Cory Embleton about the longstanding watering hole that preserves the Western way of life. https://cowboysbarmca.com
Rebecca and Shannon are catching up after not seeing each other for a while, and you all get to listen! But more helpfully, they chat about events this fall that are great for everyone, especially the wandering traveler. Events: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/findevents/ Only in October in Great Falls Blog: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/only-in-october-in-great-falls/ Sign up to receive the Eventory email: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/event-listing/
Calling all leaf peepers and fall foliage lovers! Rebecca and Shannon share scenic drives around Great Falls (hint: they are great anytime of year, not just fall). Learn about five different day trip route options and what you'll see along the way. Scenic Drives: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/scenic-drives/
The best is yet to come for the legacy of Charlie and Nancy Russell, according to the new executive director of the C.M. Russell Museum. Rebecca and Shannon chat with Chris Warden about his deep roots in Great Falls and his vision for the future of the renowned museum. C.M. Russell Museum: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/cm-russell-museum/
Great Falls is the perfect basecamp for Glacier National Park adventures! On this episode, Rebecca and Shannon are breaking down the different routes to get to Glacier and what there is to see along the way. After all, life is about the journey, not just the destination, right? Glacier National Park: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/glacier-national-park/ Glacier's East Side: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/glaciers-east-side-3-insider-secrets/
Hockey season is here! Rebecca and Shannon are chatting with Great Falls Americans head coach Greg Sears and goaltender Kayden Ryhder about the upcoming season, what fans can expect, and more! See you at the Great Falls IcePlex! Great Falls Americans: https://www.greatfallsamericans.com
Find 18 concerts and performances in one day, in one place, all in Great Falls, Montana in October! Rebecca and Shannon chat with Montana Performing Arts Consortium director Emily Wolfram about the MPAC Showcase and performing arts in Great Falls! Montana Performing Arts Consortium: https://www.mtperformingarts.org
There's a new way to explore the water in and around Great Falls! Ken Speidel joins Rebecca and Shannon to chat about his new company Prairie Mountain River Adventures. Ken talks about the scenic float trips he offers and shares stories of trips he's done and animals he's seen! Prairie Mountain River Adventures: https://www.prairiemtriver.com Call: (334) 300-6168 Email: prairiemtriver@gmail.com
He graced the silver screen in numerous Western movies and now he's the subject of a new exhibit at The History Museum. On this episode, Rebecca and Shannon chat with The History Museum's Collections Curator Ashleigh McCann about Great Falls area native George Montgomery. Along with his work in front of the camera, Montgomery became a renowned sculptor and craftsman. Learn about his upbringing in Montana and his journey in the public eye. The History Museum: https://www.greatfallshistorymuseum.org
Author, hiker, outdoor enthusiast, gardener, photographer, journalist...the list goes on! Amy Grisak joins Rebecca and Shannon on this episode to take about outdoor adventures in and around Great Falls, identifying flowers and plants, and so much more. Learn more about Amy: https://www.amygrisak.com Amy's Books (Found Photos of Yellowstone & Nature Guide to Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks): https://www.amygrisak.com/shop
The History Museum executive director Kristi Scott joins Rebecca and Shannon again to talk about major renovations at the museum, including a new visible vault! She also talks about some of the surprises discovered during the renovation process. Grand Opening of the Research Center & Visible Vault: https://www.greatfallshistorymuseum.org/events/grand-opening-research-center-visible-vault Get a look at construction progress: https://www.greatfallshistorymuseum.org/2nd-floor-remodel Great Falls will host the 51st Annual Montana History Conference September 26-28, 2024! The conference will feature all kinds of educational sessions, workshops, and at least 14 guided tours around Great Falls. It's a must for history lovers! Register for the conference: https://mhs.mt.gov/education/index3
Rebecca and Shannon are chatting with two women who represent a global movement! Katrina and Raysha share about being Great Falls ambassadors for Women Who Explore, and how ladies from anywhere belong. Women Who Explore Montana Facebook Group (with Great Falls area specific chat): https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenwhoexploremontana/ Women Who Explore: https://www.womenwhoexplore.com
Montana's newest concert venue is celebrating its 200th show! Rebecca and Shannon chat with Carrie and Measha from The Newberry about three years in business, their favorite memories so far, behind-the-scenes moments, upcoming shows, and more! The Newberry: https://thenewberrymt.com Downtown Summer Jam: https://www.downtownsummerjam.com
A popular guest is back on the podcast - Clark Carlson-Thompson from First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park! He shares about the 25th anniversary of the visitor center at the jump and upcoming summer and winter events. Upcoming Events: Jump Talks every Sunday at 1 p.m. at the top of the jump (through September 1st) Kite Festival July 13th & 14th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mammoth Hunt August 10th & 11th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/first-peoples-buffalo-jump-state-park/ Other links about the jump and visitor center: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/first-peoples-buffalo-jump/ https://www.krtv.com/neighborhood-news/great-falls-cascade-county/first-peoples-buffalo-jump-state-park-marks-25-years-of-its-visitor-center https://www.greatfallstribune.com/story/news/local/2015/08/04/first-peoples-named-national-historic-landmark/31107891/ http://lewisandclarktrail.com/section3/montanacities/greatfalls/ulmpishkun/index.htm
On this episode, Rebecca and Shannon are catching with the voice behind the opening song to this podcast - Joel Corda! Hear about Joel's experience taking over the piano at the Sip N Dip, plus he gives some insider tips on the best way to experience the famous Sip N Dip lounge. Joel's also sharing about directing the upcoming Great Falls Theatre Company production of The Music Man! The Music Man tickets: https://greatfallstheatre.com/events/
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