What happens when employees become owners? In this episode of The Chamber Link, we explore how the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) model is transforming businesses across the Fargo-Moorhead region.Hear from Tammy Miller, former CEO of Border States, Shane Waslaski, CEO of Vistal, and Dan Martinson, CEO of Fargo Glass & Paint Co., as they share what it takes to transition to employee ownership—and the powerful effects it’s had on engagement, culture and long-term success.From succession planning to leadership development, these leaders offer practical insights on how ownership can inspire accountability, pride and purpose at every level of an organization.

As Fargo continues to grow, the Fargo Park District is reimagining what community spaces can be. In this episode, Chamber Executive Vice President Katherine Grindberg sits down with Craig Bjur (Fargo Park District Foundation), Susan Faus (Fargo Park District) and Kali Mork (Fargo Park District) to explore the transformative projects shaping our city—like the new Fargo Sports Center and the Island Park Pool renovations. Together, they discuss how these efforts are redefining recreation, enhancing accessibility and building stronger community connections across the region.

On this episode of The Chamber Link, we’re exploring how collaboration is driving workforce solutions across our region. From customized training and upskilling opportunities at Minnesota State Community and Technical College (MState), to inclusive pathways for New Americans through Global Refuge, to family economic empowerment efforts at Lakes and Prairies Community Action Partnership (CAPLP), partnerships are creating new ways to connect people to meaningful work.

In this episode, hosted by Chamber Vice President of Workforce, Jane Vangsness Frisch, you’ll hear from Amy Hochgraber of MState, Dan Hannaher of Global Refuge and Robin Christianson of CAPLP. Together, they share how their organizations are addressing workforce challenges, expanding opportunities and strengthening the future of our regional workforce.

On this episode of The Chamber Link, we’re diving into Minnesota’s new Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program, set to launch Jan. 1, 2026. This legislation will bring big changes for businesses and organizations in our region, with preparation and compliance being essential.The Chamber has been closely tracking PFML from the start, engaging with policymakers and providing resources to help our members navigate what’s ahead.In this episode, you’ll hear from Dr. Brandon Lunak of Moorhead Area Public Schools, Shelley Cummings of Cash-Wa Distributing, and Matt Gilbertson of Downtown Health and Wellness. Together, we unpack what PFML means for employers, employees and the community, and how businesses can get ready for the changes ahead.

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.

Featuring Joe Raso, President and CEO, Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation and Shannon Full, President and CEO, The Chamber.This episode of The Chamber Link dives into Innovate28, a bold and collaborative plan designed to accelerate the region’s workforce, business growth, and public policy progress by 2029.From ambitious goals like growing the labor force by 12,000 individuals and adding a billion dollars in annual regional sales, to behind-the-scenes wins such as attracting Amazon’s distribution center, this discussion explores the strategies and partnerships driving real change. Topics include major workforce efforts, business growth and vitality, public policy influence, civic engagement and the importance of cross-sector collaboration in keeping the region competitive nationwide.Whether you are a local leader, business owner or simply curious about the future of our region, this episode offers insight, inspiration and a clear roadmap for growth.