Dr. Brooke Thiel, NDSU; Carmel Miller, NDSU Extension; Chandler Gramm, Next Gen AgThis episode dives into the future of the agtech workforce, a critical topic for the Fargo-Moorhead region and beyond. The conversation explores how technology is reshaping agriculture, the workforce skills needed today and tomorrow, and the role of education, research and partnerships in preparing the next generation.

From workforce shortages and rural revitalization to career exposure for young people, technology adoption, and the groundbreaking NSF AgTech Engine, the discussion highlights how collaboration and innovation are driving agriculture forward. Listeners will gain a clearer picture of both the challenges and the opportunities that lie ahead, and how our region is stepping up to lead.

Casondra Duckworth, Jeremiah Program; Victoria Konidaris, Legal Services ND; Kevin Bauer, AgWeek; Setareh Campion, The Chamber.Five voices, one mission: to show how The Chamber’s Young Professionals Network (YPN) is transforming careers and community. In this roundtable conversation, area professionals share what YPN has meant in their own journeys, from finding belonging and building confidence to stepping into leadership roles.The discussion highlights the upcoming YP Summit on October 8 at the Hilton Garden Inn, featuring keynote speakers and various breakout sessions on artificial intelligence, nonprofit board service, impostor syndrome, and more. The group reflects on major wins from last year’s event, what’s new in 2025, and why this Summit is the can’t-miss opportunity for connection, growth, and inspiration.Whether you’re new to the region or already climbing the career ladder, this episode is your inside track on how YPN can help you sharpen your skills, expand your circle and find your place in a thriving community.

Jason Benson, Executive Director, Metro Flood Diversion Authority; Tony Grindberg, Cass County Commissioner, Metro Flood Diversion Authority Board Chair.The FM Area Diversion is the largest infrastructure project in our region’s history, designed to protect more than 260,000 people from catastrophic flooding. In this episode, Metro Flood Diversion Authority leaders join the conversation to share how this once-in-a-generation project is being built, and why it matters.From the devastating floods of 1997 and 2009 to today’s groundbreaking engineering and innovative public-private partnerships, the discussion explores the scale of the project and the vision behind it. Jason and Tony walk through the technical feats of the 30-mile diversion channel, the financial model that makes it possible, and the lasting benefits for safety, housing, business, and economic growth.Listeners will also hear about the challenges that remain, the workforce needed to get the job done, and what comes next as the Fargo-Moorhead region takes bold steps toward a more resilient future.