The Growing Business Collective Show

What does it take to become a fishing legend?

In this episode of the Growing Business Collective, Nash sits down with Ted Takasaki. A Professional Walleye Angler, National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Famer, and record holder for the heaviest five-fish tournament bag in history. But Ted's story isn’t just about fish; it’s about risk, relationships, reinvention, and resilience.

From walking away from a stable ca...

When Stuart Stein took over his family’s business in February 2020, he had no idea what was waiting around the corner. Just weeks after officially becoming the 3rd-generation owner of ESCO Manufacturing and Stein Sign Display, the world shut down—and Stuart was suddenly faced with leading a 100+ person company through a global pandemic.

But instead of backing down, he leaned in.

In this interview with the Growing ...

In Part 2 of our sit-down with the founders of Black Kanyon, we go deeper into what truly powers their business acquisitions, growth philosophy, and small-town roots.

They share the full backstory behind Matchless Plastics—their first acquisition—and how walking away from the deal actually set them up to win long-term. They open up about dealmaking challenges, radical candor in leadership, their “Life-Changing Opportunity ...

In this episode of the Growing Business Collective, Nash Colberg sits down with Lynn Aman, the longtime General Manager at Hampton Inn & Suites Watertown, to discuss the art and impact of local tourism.

Lynn unpacks the Business Improvement District (BID) and the idea of funding events that put “heads in beds”—bringing in visitors, creating city-wide economic ripple effects, and building pride in Watertown’s offerings....

In this episode of the Growing Business Collective, host Nash Colberg sits down with Connie Ward, President of Venerts Hotel Management, to discuss the heartbeat of hospitality and tourism in Watertown, South Dakota.

Connie unpacks how the $2 BID tax is uniquely used in Watertown to fund real, local events that drive hotel bookings, build the economy, and make the city a go-to destination. She also gets real about staffing...

In this episode of the Growing Business Collective, host Nash Colberg sits down with Deb Stanley, General Manager of Ramkota Hotel in Watertown, SD, to uncover the heartbeat of local tourism and community-building through hospitality.

Deb dives into the Business Improvement District (BID) and how $2 a night helps drive tourism events, tournaments, and citywide celebrations. She shares what makes the hotel industry exciting...

In Part 1 of our sit-down with the founders of Black Kanyon, they discuss how business isn't all about the numbers. It’s about the people. That’s how they win. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or small-town dreamer—this story will light a fire under you.

Black Kanyon
Website: https://blackkanyon.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlackKanyon/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/black.kanyon/
L...

The Watertown Shamrocks are making waves in their inaugural North American Hockey League season! With sell-out games, thousands of fans, and an incredible commitment to the community, this team is more than just hockey, it’s a movement.

Join GBC host Nash Colberg as he sits down with Shamrocks President Ryan Bisgard to discuss:
→ How the team is transforming hockey culture in Watertown
→ The electric energy surroun...

Join Chelsea Stensland of Stensland Family Farms as she shares the inspiring story of transforming a traditional dairy farm into a beloved local creamery. Learn about their commitment to quality, community engagement, and the innovative spirit that led them to craft unique ice cream flavors, including collaborations with local kids to create new delights. This interview offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs...

Join Lindsay Stangl in this engaging interview as she highlights the unique attractions and experiences Watertown, South Dakota, has to offer. From group travel initiatives to hosting major events and supporting local businesses, discover how Visit Watertown is shaping the region’s tourism landscape. Learn about their success in drawing visitors, building community connections, and promoting iconic landmarks like the Redlin Art Cen...

Julie Ranum, Executive Director at the Redlin Art Center, shares the extraordinary legacy of Terry Redlin in this insightful continuation. Explore Redlin’s artistic process, where he masterfully used three primary colors to create timeless works of art. Learn about his unwavering passion for conservation, education, and his heartfelt connection to the community of Watertown, South Dakota.

From programs designed to inspire ...

How does tourism drive a community forward? Anjelica Uthe, Executive Director of Visit Watertown, dives into the crucial role tourism plays in economic development and community growth. Learn how Visit Watertown works to promote local businesses, attract visitors, and transform tourism dollars into better facilities, events, and experiences for both residents and visitors. From hidden gems to major projects, Anjelica shares her ins...

Sean Danger Von Dempsey, owner of Dempsey's Brewery Pub & Restaurant, takes us on a journey from his family's humble home-brewing experiments to becoming a globally recognized pizza and beer connoisseur. From learning culinary secrets at a pizza school in San Francisco to competing on the world stage in Italy, Sean reveals what it takes to perfect food, craft beers, and a thriving community presence. Plus, hear the wi...

Join us as we sit down with Josh Cleveland, District Park Supervisor for South Dakota Game Fish & Parks in Watertown, South Dakota. Josh shares the behind-the-scenes work that goes into managing multiple recreational areas. From maintaining pristine recreation areas to introducing innovative conservation practices, Josh reveals how his team enhances tourism, recreation, and local wildlife. Explore everything from hiking and fis...

Join Stacy Plocher, the zoo superintendent and director of Bramble Park Zoo, as she takes you behind the scenes of one of Watertown’s most beloved attractions. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of caring for over 800 animals, the zoo’s conservation efforts, and the educational programs that inspire future wildlife champions. Discover what makes Bramble Park Zoo a must-visit destination for families and nature lovers alike.

Step inside The Goss Opera House with Betsy Fjelland and Jamie Mack as they recount the journey of restoring this historic South Dakota treasure. From the challenges of preserving its legacy to creating a modern cultural and community hub, discover how The Goss Opera House has become an iconic destination for arts, culture, and events. Learn about the history, the vision, and the impact this restoration has had on Watertown’s commu...

Join Travas Uthe, owner of Trav’s Outfitters, as he shares the journey behind building a trusted name in outdoor and workwear gear in Watertown, South Dakota. From sourcing the highest quality products to meeting the needs of hardworking locals, Travas reveals what makes Trav’s Outfitters a community favorite. Learn about his commitment to durable apparel, customer satisfaction, and supporting local businesses.

Trav’s Outf...

In this captivating Part 1 interview, Julie Ranum, Executive Director at the Redlin Art Center, unveils the remarkable story of Terry Redlin, one of America’s most beloved artists. Learn how a childhood accident, a $1,500 scholarship, and his deep love for the outdoors shaped his iconic career. Go behind the scenes of the Redlin Art Center to uncover the personal stories behind Terry’s art, the vision behind this extraordinary trib...

Dive into the inspiring journey of Blake Heiser, Co-Founder of Heiser Skills Academy. In this interview, Blake shares his passion for basketball, the challenges of starting and growing a skills academy, and the importance of balancing life and business. Discover how Heiser Skills Academy is shaping the future of young athletes through skill development, hard work, and personalized coaching.
Learn the top three skills every athl...