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Travis and Henry join Rebecca and Shannon to talk about how they've literally forged new trails for mountain biking in Great Falls. From grassroots advocacy to purpose-built trail design, they've worked with local and federal agencies and the International Mountain Bike Association to make new biking trails a reality in Great Falls. Hear how they turned vision into action and why trails are the foundation of recreation in Great Falls. Biking in Great Falls: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/bicycling/
Tonight's guest, Nick Purswell, grew up in a small town in Eastern Oregon, but he recently moved to Bozeman, Montana for school as well as the hunting and fishing opportunities. The main reason why he moved to Bozeman revolved around Nick's desire to spend as much time in the outdoors as possible.Last year, Nick met ranchers who own a ranch about an hour from Great Falls, Montana. They offered him a job on their ranch and told him he was free to hunt on their land too. Fast forward to November 11th, of last year. Nick was elk hunting about 45 minutes Southeast of Great Falls. At the time, Nick was sitting up on a rock bluff, looking for a huge bull, when all of a sudden the “bear” turned in Nick's direction…If you've had at least one Sasquatch sighting and would like to be a guest on the show, please go to BigfootEyewitness.com and let me know. I'd love to hear from you.If you'd like to help support the show, by buying your own Bigfoot Eyewitness t-shirt or sweatshirt, please visit the Bigfoot Eyewitness Show Store, by going to https://Dogman-Encounters.MyShopify.com I produce 4 other shows that are available on your favorite podcast app. If you haven't checked them out, here are links to all 4 channels on the Spreaker App...My Bigfoot Sighting https://www.spreaker.com/show/my-bigfoot-sighting Dogman Tales https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dogman-tales--6640134Dogman Encounters https://www.spreaker.com/show/dogman-encounters-radio_2 My Paranormal Experience https://www.spreaker.com/show/my-paranormal-experience Thanks, as always, for listening!
Join us this week as we wrap up our series Family on Mission with guest speaker Pastor Nate Swanson from New City Church in Great Falls, MT! They bring a genuine love for people, a lot of joy, and a refreshing perspective. Come ready to laugh, learn, and feel right at home.
Rebecca and Shannon sit down with Great Falls native Liz Alford, Ms. Wheelchair Montana 2026. Liz shares her journey following a spinal cord injury and how it shaped her passion for advocacy. As part of the Ms. Wheelchair America program, Ms. Wheelchair Montana is not a beauty pageant, but a leadership competition highlighting the accomplishments and advocacy of women who use wheelchairs. Liz's platform focuses on medical and rehabilitation advancements, advocacy, and empowerment. In this episode, the conversation also dives into accessibility — what it's like navigating and getting around Great Falls, where progress has been made, and where there's still work to do. Tune in for an honest and inspiring discussion about resilience, leadership, and building a more accessible Great Falls for everyone. Follow Liz: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584205624803 Ms. Wheelchair America: https://www.mswheelchairamerica.org/ms-wheelchair-montana/
The Montana GOP completed its sweep of all state and federal offices in 2024. This year the party is putting greater focus on another branch of government – the judiciary. Montana Republicans laid-out their priorities during their winter kickoff in Great Falls over the weekend.
On this episode of We're No Dam Experts, hosts Rebecca and Shannon are joined by local explorer Kristen Inbody, who has made it her mission to experience Great Falls outdoors—month by month, trail by trail, and often with her dog by her side. Kristen shares stories from her goal of visiting Giant Springs every month of 2025, along with her favorite hiking spots, ways to explore Great Falls year-round, and tips for getting outside. Whether you're new to town or looking for fresh inspiration to explore your own backyard, this episode is packed with ideas to get you out the door. Kristen on Instagram: kristeninbody Montana State Parks: https://www.amazon.com/Montana-State-Parks-Erin-Madison/dp/1606390740#:~:text=What's%20it%20about%3F,recommendations%20from%20award%2Dwinning%20reporters.
“You Can't Unknow the Past” Twelve Years of Archaeological Research Affirming Centuries of Indigenous Memory and Belief Neglected by Non-Indigenous Historians This production opens with the voice of David Brule, Coordinator of the American Battlefield Protection Program Advisory Board leading an April 2, 2025 monthly board meeting, open to the public, in the Town Hall of Montague, Massachusetts in Turners Falls. He gives a broad overview of a research project now completed, funded with grants totaling nearly $200,000 from the National Park Service since 2014, to explore the archaeological past of a bloody massacre by English colonists, and the battle that ensued following seven miles of the frantic English retreat down the Green River. At dawn, May 19th, l676 hundreds of elderly and young multi-tribal refugees awoke in an unprotected encampment at Great Falls, on the North side of the middle Connecticut River, to musket fire and the screams of their people's murder. Brule's recounting is an important summary of the place of this brutal event in the larger tapestry of King Philips War. It was the bloodiest war of the Colonial period, perhaps of our entire national history, and established the tone of governmental policy toward displaced Indigenous populations ever since. Raised just a mile away, Brule grew to young adulthood without ever hearing the gruesome story: it was never referenced in school curricula or local lore. In fact, being Indigenous was barely acknowledged anywhere. Colonial histories have pretty thoroughly excluded the Indigenous perspective. The victors usually write the history. In 1900 on the Town of Gill's shore of the flooded Connecticut River above the Great Falls Dam in the presence of a gathering of thousands, a newly set stone monument acknowledged the leadership of William Turner and his 145 armed recruits in a predawn attack, killing more than 300 unarmed elderly and child-aged refugees encamped near the river. The short text, carved in stone, does not go on to explain that the atrocity was carried out within earshot of the nearest Indigenous coalition forces encamped on the other side of the river, who immediately gave chase. In the seven miles of deadly pursuit, archaeologists centuries later, exhuming troves of musket balls from the buried past, have documented the maneuvers of Indigenous forces which killed more than 50 of the retreating English, including Captain Turner himself. It was a heavy price to pay for a campaign of genocide against the Natives. Nonetheless the 1900 monument remains, a 125 year old assertion of a significant English colonial victory. It is a powerfully engrained vision to challenge with alternative, long buried truths, now finding their way into daylight through scientific interpretation. David Brule is the details person in this case, having for 12 years chaired the American Battlefield Protection Program Advisory Board. He is also a compelling storyteller who has brought to life in recurring public presentations a new understanding of the Valley's past. As president of the Nolumbeka Project, Incorporated, at the annual Pocumtuck Homeland Festival at Unity Park in August along the River's edge over the last ten years he regales growing audiences. Brule has stirred widespread research of the vast array of complex sources, including early Colonial observations of Indigenous life through unpublished letters, diaries and other written records. For more than two decades, he has been lifting a shroud of erasure far and wide, offering an alternative, balanced, collaborative narrative of an unforgettable, shared past, in search of peace and reconciliation. The final archaeological report of more than 400 pages by the Heritage Consultants, LLC., further enriches and complicates our understanding of the Northeast region and the people who lived and died trying to defend it from the ruthless Colonial experiment beginning 400 years ago.
Born and raised in Great Falls Montana, Liz Lauver is an event coordinator, freelance photographer, and actress who is currently getting ready to launch the first year of The Great Beyond Film Festival as part of her work at Great Falls Montana Tourism.The website for The Great Beyond Film Festival: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/the-great-beyond-film-festival/The Great Falls community has a deep history with UFO sightings, paranormal activity, and is known globally for their mermaids, which is what inspired the theme for The Great Beyond. The Great Beyond is a film festival for storytellers, seekers, and the seriously curious—right here, in person, at the Mansfield Center for the Performing Arts.Step into The Great Beyond Festival, a celebration of cinema that dares to explore the unexplained. This festival dives deep into the worlds of extraterrestrials, cryptids, and the paranormal—shining a spotlight on the strange, the mysterious, and the stories that live just beyond the edge of what we know. Join us in Great Falls, Montana for an unforgettable in-person experience featuring: Incredible short and feature films that explore the unknown. Filmmaking workshops for creatives ready to tell their own otherworldly tales. Meet-and-greets with filmmakers, screenwriters, and fellow fans of the weird and wonderful.Whether you're a believer, a skeptic, or just love a good mystery, you'll find inspiration, insight, and community among the shadows at The Great Beyond Festival!No streaming. No shortcuts. Just the magic of cinema—and maybe a few things that go bump in the night. The Great Beyond is calling. Are you ready to explore it?Follow The Great Beyond Film Festival on Facebook here:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580270370519Visit Great Falls, Montana on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisitGreatFallsMontana/Liz, the festival director of The Great Beyond, visits with Talking Weird to chat about some of the incredible films screening at the inaugural festival, and some of the other amazing events audiences can expect. She'll also be talking about weird phenomena in the Great Falls area.This is a fun and fascinating episode! Don't miss it!
On this episode of We're No Dam Experts, hosts Rebecca and Shannon sit down with the creators and owners of Magpie, the local hotspot known for its bold claim to having the best patio in Great Falls. We talk homemade taco recipes, expertly crafted cocktails, and what went into building a place that's all about good food, good drinks, and even better company. Plus, a first for the podcast: our guests came prepared with questions of their own, making for a lively, engaging conversation you won't want to miss. Magpie on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/magpieisawesome/ Magpie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magpieisawesome/?hl=en
The huge chunk of ocean between Miami, Bermuda, and Puerto Rico remains the planet's most mysterious place. But it's not alone. Alaska has its own triangle. Since the late 80s, 16,000 people have disappeared there. Eyewitnesses to the Bermuda Triangle anomaly talk about thick fog, lightning, balls of light, and hallucinations. In Alaska, everything's a bit more complicated. People, planes, ships…they just disappear without a trace. There's no one around to tell us what it felt like. In 1950, a plane took off from Anchorage, Alaska, headed for Great Falls, in Montana. It was carrying 8 crew members and 36 passengers. 2 hours after the start of the flight, the captain radioed in that everything was fine. Then: silence. The 100 ft long plane seemed to evaporate into thin air. 85 aircraft and around 7,000 people searched for the plane. No trace... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, I sit down with Luke Urick, the Executive Director, and Bryon Gustafson, the Deputy Director of the Montana Veterans Project, a Great Falls–based nonprofit that helps veterans rediscover purpose, camaraderie, and resilience through veteran-led therapeutic adventure trips in the Montana backcountry. We explore how challenging wilderness experiences can help veterans reconnect with themselves, their fellow warriors, and the mission that doesn't simply end when military service does. We dig into why traditional approaches sometimes fall short, and how shared physical challenge, communication, and hard work in nature can catalyze healing in ways that matter long after the trip ends. This is a conversation about more than PTSD or buzzwords — it's about purpose, belonging, and veterans building new life chapters with intention and grit. Montana Vet Program - https://www.mtvetprogram.org Today's Sponsors: Betterwild: Betterwild is offering listeners up to 40% off your order at https://www.betterwild.com/CLEAREDHOT Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at https://www.shopify.com/clearedhot
On this episode of We're NO Dam Experts, Rebecca and Shannon sit down with Curtis Thompson for a wide-ranging conversation rooted in music, creativity, and Great Falls connections. Curtist shares his journey as a musician, memorable musical experiences, and the events that have shaped his career along the way. He also clears up how to properly pronounce his band's name and reflects on what music has meant to him over the years. Listeners may recognize the last name. Curtis is the father of Jolene from Kellergeist, a familiar and frequent guest on the podcast, making this episode a fun look at the musical roots behind a local favorite. Eklegein Jam Band: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100037234843509
Ever wondered what it's like to have a front-row seat to 2,000 pounds of attitude and make people laugh while doing it? In this episode of We're No Dam Experts, hosts Rebecca and Shannon sit down with rodeo clown JJ Harrison, who might just have the most dangerous stand-up comedy job in the world. JJ is in Great Falls for the Montana Pro Rodeo Circuit Finals, and he's pulling back the curtain on life inside the arena. From how he got started as a rodeo clown to the art of working a crowd (and dodging bulls), JJ shares behind-the-scenes stories, insider rodeo insights, and plenty of laughs along the way. It's a crash course in rodeo culture, Montana-style, and a reminder that in Great Falls, you never know who—or what—you might run into. IG: jj.harrison811 Facebook: JJ Harrison Montana Pro Rodeo Circuit Finals: https://www.prorodeomontana.com
Meet Kelli Hess; Executive Director of Home Resource. From recycling cans as a kid in Great Falls to an internship at the YMCA, Kelli realized she could receive a double paycheck by working hard in the non-profit sector helping people. Check out their fundraiser event: https://www.homeresource.org/event/bolts-and-bicycles-forever-home-in-missoula/Learn more about Home Resource: https://www.homeresource.org/
Rebecca and Shannon are looking ahead to the new year and chatting about some of the things they're most excited about in Great Falls in 2026! Links to a few of the events/places mentioned: Great Beyond Film Festival: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/the-great-beyond-film-festival/ Downtown Summer Jam: https://www.downtownsummerjam.com The Stadium: https://stadiumgf.com Great Falls Theatre Company: https://greatfallstheatre.com/events/ Great Walls: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/artsfest-montana/ The Newberry: https://thenewberrymt.com/events/ Mansfield Center for the Performing Arts: https://greatfallsmt.net/mansfieldcenter Outdoor Things to Do: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-category/outdoor/
Starlight Thursdays welcomes boughETTo, a Great Falls–based selector whose journey to the decks comes after more than a decade spent on the other side of them. This mix is part of ADDerallUP, a one-take recording series that lives fully in the moment, unplanned, unscripted and driven by an ever expanding musical library. Rooted in house and bass, the session moves fluidly across energy and texture, reflecting a deep respect for the evolution of music and everything in between. With experience supporting artists like Enzymes and playing events such as Crazy Mountain Carnival, Zebra, and Cymantec Event Center, boughETTo brings a listener's ear to the booth prioritizing flow, curiosity, and connection over predictability. Artists featured in the mix include Amp Live, VNSSA, Emil, and The Sniffers, woven together into a cohesive journey that feels lived-in rather than rehearsed. Press play, stay present, and love life! Hope you enjoy!
Rebecca and Shannon are recapping some of their favorite moments in Great Falls in 2025, from podcast guests to new experiences and more! Look back on the year with us, and plan out your 2026 in Great Falls! Great Beyond Film Festival: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/the-great-beyond-film-festival/ Feisty Women of Great Falls Documentary: https://youtu.be/D_f0HTzhrS4?si=Y5qRwT4tjjAouZju Podcast with Hasan Davis: https://youtu.be/2VLL36l-h5c?si=nMFrD72XTnK-89Ac Podcast with Timothy Gordon: https://youtu.be/SmI4SkXl93E?si=Hus7qJ9I87wrPiNj Podcast with Robert Osborne: https://youtu.be/qzxWy8p-LoY?si=J3UF8p4FXQYw_SXe Podcast with Kqyn Kuka: https://youtu.be/6rthkTePTVI?si=FIw8Hxh-GGmsaoOe Podcast about Ayrshire Dairy: https://youtu.be/qxYGwHzg1nY?si=JeTWvxKhMZZaPqD2 Budweiser Clydesdales in Great Falls: https://youtube.com/shorts/9c37nDmB6fk?si=vP2RnjVGrJWVPLCa Podcast about Pedro Martinez Day: https://youtu.be/1kGqKq4sog0?si=1EKXx4T6H-GJN_T- Pedro Martinez Mural: https://youtube.com/shorts/sdp1n4HRJfQ?si=QwVzqnYxsDnUIqUH Watch Great Things in Great Falls on ABC Fox Montana/NonStop Local every Saturday morning around 8:15 am MDT! Podcast about The View From Here Neon Exhibit at Paris Gibson Square: https://youtu.be/63T3CsZOSC8?si=8gUMWuGcjqmPCbxP
In this episode of We're No Dam Experts, Rebecca and Shannon sit down with Miles and Kaela to talk about one of Great Falls' newest additions: The Station District. They explore what makes this riverfront destination unique, including its modern food hall concept that brings multiple dining experiences together under one roof. It includes four distinct restaurant concepts, a coffee bistro, a full bar with seasonal cocktails, and 24 taps. From relaxed patio dining to gathering with friends in the spacious dining room, this conversation gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how The Station District is redefining food, drink, and community in Great Falls. The Station District: https://www.thestationdistrict.com
EPISODE 654 - Linda Ambrus Broenniman - The astonishing story of eight generations of her Jewish ancestorsLinda grew up in Buffalo, New York. She is the middle child of seven born to Hungarian physicians who survived World War II and started their new life in the U.S. in 1949.Linda graduated from Swarthmore College with a BA in psychology and went on to get an MBA from Carnegie Mellon. Several years after graduation, she left mainstream corporate America to follow her path as an entrepreneur. She let her passion for uncovering hidden potential in unexpected places guide her.And she allowed this passion to fuel the search for her hidden family.A Wilbur Award recipient, Linda is a GenerationsForward speaker for the Holocaust & Human Rights Education Center.Linda lives in Great Falls, Virginia with her husband, Ed, of 30 years and their dog, Juno.Book: The Politzer SagaIn this rich narrative, Linda Ambrus Broenniman's search for truth becomes a remarkable epic – part memoir, part biography, part history – that illuminates the Hungarian Jewish experience over the last 300 years.Linda finds her family: doctors, lawyers, bankers, entrepreneurs, writers, musicians, art collectors, and philanthropists. And learns of the ir resilience in surviving religious persecution, wars, epidemics, and economic upheavals.By telling their stories, Linda could honor the memories of her lost family. And she learns how finding your roots helps anchor your own place in the world.https://politzersaga.com/Support the show___https://livingthenextchapter.com/podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks!https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca
We're welcoming back a familiar voice—and introducing one you should definitely know. Rebecca and Shannon are joined by Joel Corda and Steve Olson for a conversation all about music, creativity, and community in Great Falls. Steve is a longtime music educator, conductor, and performer whose passion centers on making the arts accessible and inclusive for everyone. Joel shares what's new—including the story behind his brand-new vinyl record, Complicated Christmas. Steve Olson Orchestra Free Concert (featuring vocals from Joel Corda) Saturday, December 20th at 2 p.m. at CMR High School in Great Falls, Montana! Steve Olson: https://www.steveolsonmusic.net/about Joel Corda's New Vinyl & Merch: https://www.space-ment.com/complicated-christmas-merch Great Falls Info: visitgreatfallsmontana.org
Looking for the perfect backdrop for your holiday card? Rebecca and Shannon share their top five (plus a few honorable mentions) photo-worthy spots around Great Falls. From iconic views to cozy, festive corners, these locations shine year-round — and sparkle even brighter during the holiday season. Tune in for insider tips, local favorites, and the places that make Great Falls picture-perfect for your next family snapshot! visitgreatfallsmontana.org
In the second installment of our Trip Tease series, Rebecca and Shannon share more curated itineraries to help you make the most of your time in Great Falls! This time, they're diving into themed excursions from wood to "big city" adventures. Listen and plan your trip! https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/ Some of the places mentioned in this episode: Good Wood Guys: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/good-wood-guys/ Paris Gibson Square: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/parisgibson-square-museum-of-art/ Farmer's Daughter Fibers: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/the-farmers-daughter-fibers/ Electric City Coffee: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/?s=Electric+City+Coffee Downtown Murals: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/downtown-murals/
Rebecca and Shannon cozy up for a conversation about holiday traditions, favorite festive stories, and what truly makes Great Falls feel magical during the season. They share local insights and fun anecdotes while highlighting the many ways the community comes alive with events. If you're wondering what to do around Great Falls this holiday season, this episode is your go-to guide for festive events, local favorites, and all the little moments that make the holidays shine in this special place. Holiday Events Blog: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/holiday-events-in-great-falls-a-festive-guide-to-the-2025-season/
A nearly century-old private college in Great Falls is on the ropes as it confronts a massive budget deficit. The University of Providence lost funding from the hospital system that supports it. Administrators are now laying off staff and changing course offerings in a bid to stay afloat. Montana Free Press reporter Matt Hudson is following the restructuring and joined MTPR's Austin Amestoy with details.
On this episode of We're No Dam Experts, Rebecca and Shannon sit down with Liz Lauver, the brains behind Visit Great Falls' amazing lineup of events this season. Liz fills us in on Deck the Falls, a brand-new holiday celebration that brings together the Holiday Glam Slam hotel decorating contest, the Clash at the Course Christmas Light Showdown, and Candy Cane Lane—all lighting up December with festive fun. Then, Liz takes us behind the scenes of the Great Beyond Film Festival, happening February 5–7, 2026. Great Falls has a rich history of aliens, mermaids, and ghost stories—which makes it the perfect spot for a festival celebrating the paranormal, extraterrestrials, cryptids, and all things mysterious. This isn't your typical film festival—it's a worldwide gathering of films, plus world-class workshops and classes for filmmakers and curious minds ready to explore the unknown. So, grab your cocoa, get cozy, and join us for a look at some of the coolest events coming soon to Great Falls! Deck the Falls: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/deck-the-falls/ The Great Beyond Film Festival: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/the-great-beyond-film-festival/
This week on We're No Dam Experts, Rebecca and Shannon talk with Hasan Davis—attorney, youth advocate, and nationally known reenactor featured in the new National Park Service film Big Medicine: York Outdoors. Hasan shares how he brings York of the Lewis and Clark Expedition to life, why this story still resonates, and what it meant to film parts of the project in the Great Falls region. It's a powerful conversation about history, identity, and giving voice to people the record often overlooks. If you're curious about the Expedition, love thoughtful storytelling, or just enjoy a meaningful conversation, you'll want to listen in. And when you visit, you can catch Big Medicine: York Outdoors playing regularly at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. https://www.hasandavis.com https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/big-medicine-york-outdoors.htm https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/lewis-and-clark-interpretive-center/
Rebecca and Shannon sit down with celebrity appraiser Timothy Gordon — you might recognize him from Antiques Roadshow. With over 30 years of experience, Tim has appraised everything from Princess Diana's gowns to the Ronald Reagan Ranch. They talk all things appraising and get you ready for Montana's only Appraisal Fair of 2025, happening Friday, November 14, 12 to 8 PM at The History Museum in Great Falls. Got fine art, collectibles, toys, or heirlooms? Bring them along! (Just leave chemicals, firearms, and jewelry at home.) For $15 per item (up to 4 items per group), Tim and auctioneer Grant Zahajko will give you a verbal appraisal. Not bringing anything? No problem! The event is free to attend as a spectator — come listen to stories, hear announcements of rare finds, and enjoy the museum atmosphere. Tim shares some surprising stories from his career and offers tips to help you make the most of the fair. Tune in and find out what your treasures might really be worth!
When those in the second chair embrace the unique privilege and power of serving alongside a lead pastor, they help their staff and church fulfill God's purposes. Arguably, we play the most critical role in creating healthy culture, helping others embrace the lead pastor's vision and positioning the church to become everything God intends it to be. So, let's talk about it. Eric Crawford is the Executive Pastor at New City Church in Great Falls, MT, where he has served in full-time ministry for 17 years. He is passionate about leadership, discipleship, and helping others thrive in their God-given roles. Eric is married to Kelsey, and they have a daughter, Rowan.We hope that this teaching left you more encouraged and equipped today. Ministers Fellowship International exists to help leaders build healthy, strong, impacting churches and to do so in a way that makes for a healthy leader.
This week, Rebecca and Shannon sit down with hometown musician Cash Muretta, whose sound blends outlaw country, folk, and cowboy storytelling into something unmistakably Montana. Fresh off a tour in Germany and with new music on the way, Cash talks about making his dreams a reality, his creative process, and what keeps him rooted in Great Falls. And yes — he even brings his guitar and performs LIVE on the podcast! You can find Cash's music on Apple Music, Spotify, and more, and follow him on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube to keep up with his latest songs and shows. Tune in for great conversation and original music in this special episode of We're No Dam Experts.
Show Notes:In this profound episode of The Human Experience, host Jennifer Peterkin and guest interviewer Linda explore the extraordinary story of a woman whose Hungarian refugee parents survived World War II and the Holocaust. The guest recounts the shocking discovery of her hidden Jewish heritage within a family that had long believed they were Catholic. Through years of research, recovered letters, and family documents, she uncovers her mother’s recognition as “Righteous Among the Nations” and her father’s harrowing survival in Nazi labor camps. This conversation weaves together personal storytelling and historical truth, illuminating the weight of inherited trauma, the courage to confront silence, and the power of remembrance. Linda’s journey serves as a moving reminder that uncovering our histories—no matter how painful—connects us to our humanity and shapes the stories we pass forward. ⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of war, genocide, and trauma related to the Holocaust. Listener discretion is strongly advised. Key Takeaways:● Exploration of personal and family identity across generations.● The guest’s discovery of hidden Jewish roots within a family who believed they were Catholic.● Her mother’s recognition as Righteous Among the Nations for protecting Jews during the Holocaust.● Her father’s survival through Nazi labor camps and the brutal conditions of Auschwitz.● The discovery of family documents and how they revealed a hidden legacy.● Insights into Hungarian Jewish experiences during World War II.● The importance of preserving memory and confronting silence among survivors.● The enduring impact of repression and trauma on post-war identity.● The guest’s efforts to educate others through The Politzer Saga book and museum exhibition.● A call to listeners to uncover and share their own family stories of resilience and truth. Interview recorded in Great Falls, Virginia. Linda Ambrus Broenniman’s Bio:Linda Ambrus Broenniman grew up in Buffalo, New York, as the middle child of seven born to Catholic Hungarian physicians who survived World War II and began a new life in the United States in 1949. After earning her BA in Psychology from Swarthmore College and an MBA from Carnegie Mellon University, Linda left corporate America to pursue her passion for entrepreneurship, founding companies in technology and biotechnology. Her curiosity and drive to uncover hidden potential led her on a personal quest to uncover her own hidden family history. Through years of research, Linda pieced together the remarkable story of her Jewish ancestors—the Politzer family—and their lives lost to her father’s silence. Her book, The Politzer Saga, brings their stories to life and forms the foundation of The Politzer Saga Exhibit, a permanent exhibition housed in the newly renovated Rumbach Synagogue in Budapest, Hungary. Linda lives in Great Falls, Virginia with her husband, Ed, of 30 years. Connect with Linda Ambrus Broenniman:
Artificial intelligence, or, AI is on everyone's minds, and we're all still figuring out how to trust it, teach it, and use it responsibly. Today we take a deep dive into how AI is affecting the education of current and future pharmacy students. With us is Jennifer Trujillo, associate Dean for education and professor in the Department of Clinical Pharmacy at the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences on the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, Colorado, and Logan Tinsen, the clinical pharmacy manager and residency program director at Benefis Hospital in Great Falls, Montana. Guest speakers: Jennifer Trujillo, PharmD, BCPS, CDCES, BC-ADM Associate Dean for Education Professor, Department of Clinical Pharmacy Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Logan Tinsen, PharmD, FMPA Clinical Pharmacy Manager and Residency Program Director Benefits Hospitals Host: Kerry Schwarz, PharmD, MPH Senior Clinical Manager, Evidence-Based Medicine and Outcomes Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence (CPPE) Show Notes: [01:02-03:45] Challenges with AI in pharmacy education [03:46-05:59] The AI adoption spectrum: Pitfalls of extremes between full and limited adoption [06:00-11:18] Approaches to pharmacy education in the early stages of AI [11:19-14:55] Guardrails and safeguards [14:56-16:29] Key takeaways about AI right now for pharmacy educators VerifiedRx Listener Feedback Survey: We would love to hear from you - Please click here Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube RSS Feed
This week, Rebecca and Shannon are joined by three guests bringing spooky season to life in downtown Great Falls: Jason Madill, owner of the Strain Building and Elevation 3330; Jesse Hinojosa, organizer of the upcoming El Desfile de los Muertos parade; and Cale Younce, Jesse's bandmate in Midnight FistFight. They talk about how this new Day of the Dead parade will fill Central Avenue with flickering candles, painted faces, and music that calls back the spirits of the past. You'll also hear about Haunted Tunnel Tours under the Strain Building and Elevation 3330, plus how Midnight FistFight will keep the energy going with live shows at Elevation 3330 on Halloween night and after the parade. From honoring tradition to throwing a great party, this episode celebrates the creative energy turning Great Falls into a city of spirits this fall.
Today, Hunter was joined by several amazing public defenders from the Montana Public Defender System. Each one of them joins the show to talk about the truly transformative effects that workload limits have had on the system, what they hope to see continue to improve in the system, and how the work is finally sustainable because they have enforced workload standards. Guest: Brett Schandelson, Chief Public Defender, Montana Office of the State Public Defender David Carter, Managing Attorney, Polson, Montana Office of the State Public Defender Natasha Fernando, Managing Attorney, Billings Conflict Division, Montana Office of the State Public Defender Clair Lettow, Managing Attorney, Great Falls, Montana Office of the State Public Defender Nick Aemisegger, Managing Attorney, Kalispell, Montana Office of the State Public Defender Jeavon Lang, Managing Attorney, Appellate, Montana Office of the State Public Defender Qasim Abdul Baki, Public Defender, Montana Office of the State Public Defender Resources: Contact OPD Here https://publicdefender.mt.gov/ Contact Hunter Parnell: Publicdefenseless@gmail.com Instagram @PublicDefenselessPodcast Twitter @PDefenselessPod www.publicdefenseless.com Subscribe to the Patreon www.patreon.com/PublicDefenselessPodcast Donate on PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=5KW7WMJWEXTAJ Donate on Stripe https://donate.stripe.com/7sI01tb2v3dwaM8cMN Trying to find a specific part of an episode? Use this link to search transcripts of every episode of the show! https://app.reduct.video/o/eca54fbf9f/p/d543070e6a/share/c34e85194394723d4131/home
This week, Rebecca and Shannon sit down with artist, designer, and all-around creative force Shari Jenkins Schmidt. Shari shares what it's like to live in and restore the historic Collins Mansion, her ongoing restoration projects in the old Beckman's building, and her plans to open a one-of-a-kind Santa museum in downtown Great Falls. She also talks about her inspiration behind the Beckman's storefront display honoring Norma Ashby Smith's 90th birthday and how her work ended up on Leanin' Tree greeting cards, mugs, and magnets found in stores across the country. https://sharijenkins.com Collins Mansinon: https://historicmt.org/items/show/213
As part of a national awareness effort, homeless shelter leaders in Great Falls, Kalispell, and Missoula took to the streets Oct. 9 – Oct. 10 to bring the plight of Montana’s homeless to light. In Kalispell and Great Falls, the […] The post Montana Conversations on a Bench – Shelter Leaders Talk about Homelessness first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Rebecca and Shannon sit down with Little Shell Tribal Councilwoman Alisa Herodes to talk about the upcoming Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations in Great Falls. This four-day event is filled with culture, tradition, and community, including: Friday, October 10 – First Fashion Native American Fashion Show Saturday, October 11 – 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament & Traditional Games Sunday, October 12 – Soup & Story Monday, October 13 – Guest Speakers & Fry Bread Contest Join us for a conversation about the events and the importance of celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day in Great Falls. https://montanalittleshelltribe.org
Rebecca and Shannon welcome back Ashleigh McCann, Collections Curator at The History Museum, and introduce Connie Constan, the museum's new executive director. They serve up the secrets of the Bootlegger Ball, happening Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 6 p.m. Think live jazz, 1920s-inspired cocktails, costumes, and a night of Prohibition-era fun — all set in Great Falls' very own speakeasy-style celebration. Tune in to hear how you can join the party, get inspired by the theme, and experience a night of history, music, and mischief! Bootlegger Ball: https://www.greatfallshistorymuseum.org/events/bootlegger-ball The History Museum: https://www.greatfallshistorymuseum.org
Starlight Thursdays Episode 283 welcome TyCurl to the show! Originally born in Great Falls, Grew up in Phoenix Az before returning to our beautiful state. He's been DJing for the past year, drawing inspiration from a pure love of music of all genres of music and his time as festy kid always wanting to see the other side of the stage. For More TyCurl Check out his SoundCloud https://on.soundcloud.com/0OYaigBaO0S94WfwEg You may have had the pleasure to dance to his sets at Crazy Mountain Carnival, The zebra and other clubs from Missoula to Bozeman. We had to do a little interview to get a closer look behind the talent of TyCurl. What do you find inspiring about this scene and culture? Watching people get lost in the music as much as I do. Being able to share my love and distinct taste of music with the general public. Mostly everything that the music scene is about, authenticity and pure love! What genres are in your mix? I call it Boughetto house. From acid to trap and g house. Can you tell us a little more about it? I like to start with weird obscure music and work into a party groove with tracks that sample hip hop or any other genre I feel fits with music produced by Wax Motif, Walker n Royce, VNSSA, The Sponges and Sidepiece to name a few. Anything else you want us to know? I love being on both sides of the boards, music is my love language.
In this episode, Jamie Leonard shares her journey from clinical pharmacist to Director of Pharmacy at Benefis Health System in Great Falls, Montana. She oversees pharmacy operations across the continuum of care, including acute care, cancer and infusion centers, long-term care, critical access hospitals, and Benefis' 340B program. Jamie discusses the unique challenges of serving a largely rural and government-payer-heavy population, while emphasizing Benefis' strong commitment to community health, education, and work-life balance. She highlights key pharmacy initiatives such as expanding specialty and retail pharmacy, growing a Meds-to-Beds program, and supporting patients with timely medication access—critical in a state where patients often travel long distances.
In this episode, Rebecca and Shannon chat with Vanessa, a medical student at Touro who's new to Great Falls. Seeing a need for connection, she created Great Falls Girl Walks (GFGW)—a weekly social walk that's open to both locals and visitors. Every Sunday at 10:00 AM, women meet at Gibson Park for a 1-mile loop and then gather at Station Eatery to chat over coffee. Whether you're visiting, or just looking to meet people, GFGW is a welcoming way to explore Great Falls, get moving, and make connections. Tune in to hear Vanessa's story, how the club started, and how you can join in Sunday (spoiler alert, just show up)! Find Great Falls Girl Walks on Instagram: @greatfallsgirlwalks of on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578342045894
We're back with two familiar faces — Jolene from Kellergeist and Dan from Annie's Tap House — to talk all things Oktoberfest!
On this episode of We're No Dam Experts, we sit down with Jessica, interim director of Great Falls Park and Recreation, and AJ, trail coordinator, to talk about the brand-new Selfie Scavenger Hunt along the River's Edge Trail. Running September 8–October 30, 2025, the Selfie Scavenger Hunt invites participants to visit public art pieces along the trail, scan the QR codes, and snap a photo in front of at least five works of art for a chance to win prizes. It's a fun and engaging way to explore the River's Edge Trail, enjoy Great Falls' outdoor spaces, and connect with local art. Jessica and AJ also share updates on upcoming Great Falls Park and Rec events, including: A special opportunity to cross Cochrane Dam on September 27 The annual Youth Triathlon on October 4 Winter recreation programs and activities Exciting long-term plans for 2026 that will expand outdoor and community opportunities Whether you're a Great Falls local or planning a visit to Montana, this episode is filled with insider tips on how to make the most of the season. Tune in to learn more about the Selfie Scavenger Hunt, outdoor recreation, and events that make Great Falls a must-experience destination. Great Falls Park & Recreation: https://greatfallsmt.net/recreation
Colter and Brooks Nuanez continue to talk some NFL football leading into the first game of the season. Plus: head coach of Great Falls football AJ Wilson hops on the show to discuss their big win against defending champions Helena Capital this past weekend.
We are reminded from a letter written by a Canadian listener who recently visited Great Falls, MT of the significance of the American diner... it is a melting pot of culture, acceptance and community. As the world is being forcefully transformed into post nation-state dystopias, the diner is that echo of a time when family and traditional roles held true. There is a spiritual circumcising of the heart that is causing transgender values to creep as a new normal. It is corrupting men and women alike from all walks of life and all faiths. It is time to return to the teachings of Jesus and walk the way He called us to walk. #BardsFM_Morning #TheDiner #ForgivenessAndLove Bards Nation Health Store: https://www.bardsnationhealth.com MYPillow promo code: BARDS Go to https://www.mypillow.com/bards and use the promo code BARDS or... Call 1-800-975-2939. Founders Bible 20% discount code: BARDS >>> https://thefoundersbible.com/#ordernow Mission Darkness Faraday Bags and RF Shielding. Promo code BARDS: Click here EMPShield protect your vehicles and home. Promo code BARDS: Click here EMF Solutions to keep your home safe: https://www.emfsol.com/?aff=bards Treadlite Broadforks...best garden tool EVER. Promo code BARDS: Click here Natural Skin Products by No Knot Today: Click here Product Store, Ambitious Faith: Click here Health, Nutrition and Detox Consulting: HealthIsLocal.com Destination Real Food Book on Amazon: click here Images In Bloom Soaps and Things: ImagesInBloom.com Angeline Design: click here DONATE: Click here Mailing Address: Xpedition Cafe, LLC Attn. Scott Kesterson 591 E Central Ave, #740 Sutherlin, OR 97479
This week on We're No Dam Experts, we chat with Dakota Dixon — a rare combination of skateboarder and bull rider. Dakota shares how skateboarding first captured his passion, talks about the local skateboarding scene in Great Falls, and gives us the inside scoop on the annual Great Falls Skate Park Jam. He also opens up about overcoming health challenges and his plans to launch a new skate shop in town. Whether you ride, skate, or just love an inspiring local story, this episode has something for everyone. Riverside Railyard Skate Park in Great Falls: https://visitgreatfallsmontana.org/listing-item/riverside-railyard-skate-park/
Recorded Friday, August 1, 2025 at the Bearly There Bunkhouse in Canyon Creek Montana KNTTING Barb is working on charity hats, A Hat Called Hudson x4 by Alison Shuman, and Bankhead Hat #34 (by Susie Gorlay) Eileen has been working on Maize by Tin Can Knits, fingerless mitts in Black Wolf fiber and Simple Summer Tweed Top Down V-Neck by Heidi Kirrmaier in Urth Monokrom Worsted Susan has made 4 The Knitted Rib Watch Caps by the American Red Cross for charity and is making the Sixteen Hearts Baby Hat by Natasha Childers Kate is making the Botanic Shawl by Stephen West and The Gathering Hat by Kate Salomon Tracie has been very indecisive about yarn but is going to make the Summer Sky Tee by Comfort Zone Knits in Juniper Moon Farm Zooey Spray BOOKS Eileen: Kate Shugak - Kate Shugak series by Dana Stabenow Sebastian St Cyr series by CS Harris Susan: The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax by Dorothy Gilman The Unraveling of Julia by Lisa Scottoline Kate: Spitfires: The American Women Who Flew in the Face of Danger in WWII by Becky Aikman Population 485 by Michael Perry Tracie: DS George Cross series by Tim Sullivan Cormac Reilly series by Dermal Mctiernan Barb: Facing the Extreme: One Woman's Story by Ruth Anne Kocour Our whole group recommends Great Falls, Montana for yarn shopping! Yarn & Honey Farmer's Daughter Fibers
Since 1973, the Catholic Church in the United States has observed October as “Respect Life Month.” This year, Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of Arlington, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities invites Catholics to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Respect Life Month by embracing “radical solidarity” with women facing difficult or challenging pregnancies. Read Bishop Burbidge's full statement, “Living Radical Solidarity.” Resources for Respect Life Month are available at https://www.respectlife.org/respect-life-month. More than one hundred bishops from around the world recently attended the Vatican's school for new bishops. Bishop Jeffrey Fleming of Great Falls, Montana, and Bishop Michael Izen, Auxiliary Bishop of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, shared their experiences with Catholic Current.
Matt is in a realm of light and beauty, so Shane and Mikey shout at each other about what's been good lately.Great FallsAge of FearCheck out our Patreon for bonus shows and more!Musical Attribution:Licensed through NEOSounds.“5 O'Clock Shadow,” “America On the Move,” “Baby You Miss Me,” “Big Fat Gypsy,” “Bubble Up,” “C'est Chaud,” “East River Blues,” “The Gold Rush,” “Gypsy Fiddle Jazz,” “Here Comes That Jazz,” “I Wish I Could Charleston,” “I Told You,” “It Feels Like Love To Me,” “Little Tramp,” “Mornington Crescent,” “No Takeaways.”
Leo James Wagner was a 26 year old from Great Falls, MT. He was Native American and a father. On April 27, 2021, a reliable witness saw Leo strolling but bleeding along St. Mary Lake in Babb, MT. This person then lost sight of Leo. He was never seen again. Charley Project:https://charleyproject.org/case/leo-james-wagner NAMUS:https://www.namus.gov/MissingPersons/Case#/81200?navMap Video:https://youtu.be/yNtKjGvSlqc Website:https://theunfoundpodcast.com/2025/08/19/leo-james-wagner/ If you have any information regarding the disappearance of Leo Wagner, please contact the Blackfeet Tribal Law Enforcement Agency at (406) 338-4000. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We're No Dam Experts is celebrating baseball history in Great Falls! Our guest, Scott Reasoner from the Great Falls Voyagers, joins us to share the inside scoop on Pedro Martinez Day at Voyager Stadium. Before becoming a Hall of Famer, World Series champion, and one of the most dominant pitchers in MLB, Pedro Martinez launched his professional career right here in Great Falls in the early 1990s. Now he's returning to the ballpark where it all began. On Saturday, August 23rd, the Voyagers will host an unforgettable game day as Great Falls officially celebrates Pedro Martinez Day—an event you'll be able to experience every year moving forward. Even better? A documentary crew is in town filming Pedro's story, making this year's celebration one for the history books. Come for the ballgame, stay for the tradition—because every August, Great Falls will welcome you back for Pedro Martinez Day. Great Falls Voyagers: https://www.gfvoyagers.com