Recent Episodes
Season 3 · Episode 98
Better Off in Billings: Exploring the Latest Tools for Talent Attraction & Retention
Jun 16, 2025
In this Vault short, KaVo & Marce B are back with a follow-up episode all about the newest tools available on BetterOffinBillings.org. These resources were built with employers and newcomers in mind—and they’re designed to help elevate Billings’ talent attraction and retention strategy.
They walk through three key additions to the site: the Cost of Living Calculator, a regional Industry Map, and the new Business & Talent Attraction video, which highlights why Billings is Montana’s city and a hub of opportunity.
KaVo & Marce B also break down the most shareable parts of the site—whether you’re a recruiter, community ambassador, or just proud to call Billings home. They talk about the BOIB Ambassador group, how to connect with them, and why tools like these matter for growing a community and workforce that thrives.
Play EpisodeSeason 3 · Episode 97
Patrick Daley on Grit, Global Insight, and Strategic Perspective
Jun 9, 2025
Join us as we sit down with Patrick Daley—businessman, Army veteran, and son of former Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley—for a wide-ranging conversation on life, discipline, and business.
Patrick shares his journey from growing up in Chicago and attending an all-boys Catholic school, to enlisting in the Army’s airborne infantry and working in investment banking in New York. He reflects on the value of hard physical labor, the discipline of military service, and the lessons learned from construction sites and classrooms alike.
We talk about his time at Bear Stearns, being in New York during 9/11, and his work on the ground with the fire department in the days that followed. Patrick also discusses his time living and working in Russia, learning the language, and gaining perspective through international experience.
Now a partner at Tur Partners, he shares insight into investment strategy, the value of staying within your “circle of competence,” and how his firm is working in energy and beyond.
Connect with TUR Partners HERE.
Play EpisodeSeason 3 · Episode 96
The Story of Lazy K Bar Whiskey: Building a Montana Legacy with Britt West and Casey Mitchell
Jun 2, 2025
Join us as we sit down with Lazy K Bar Whiskey’s Britt West, Partner, and Casey Mitchell, Head of Sales and Marketing—the team behind a bourbon crafted to honor Montana’s legacy and values.
In this episode, they share their personal stories—what inspired them to create Lazy K Bar Whiskey, how the founding team came together, and the importance of honoring Montana’s heritage throughout the process. The team includes actor Cole Hauser, along with partners Britt West and David Leuschen. Their goal was to create a high-quality, authentic whiskey that Montanans can be proud to call their own.
From the careful blend of aged bourbon to the intentional bottle design, this is a brand built to reflect Montana values—strong, grounded, and genuine. We also talk about the century-old guest ranch behind the name, the meaning of legacy, and the smooth, bold experience inside every bottle.
Connect with Lazy K Bar Whiskey HERE.
Play EpisodeThe Episode Vault

Ryan Jore on Strength, Accountability, and Building Community Through Fitness
May 26, 2025

Creating Space for Community, Creativity, and Conversation with Alana Sukut of Casual Space
May 19, 2025

Building Native Owned Businesses through Art and Innovation with Triia
May 12, 2025

In the Newsroom: Dianne Parker’s Journey in TV Journalism
May 5, 2025

Leading with Integrity, Building with Purpose: Andrew Newman’s Approach to Business and Community
Apr 28, 2025

NADC on Building Strong Native Communities through Business Support, Financial Services, & Community Wellness
Apr 21, 2025

Steve Arveschoug on Change, Legacy, and What It Means to Lead
Apr 14, 2025

Nichole Mehling on Philanthropy, Team Culture, and Building a Stronger Montana
Apr 7, 2025

Transforming Montana’s Culinary Scene, The Power of Mentorship, and Redefining Hospitality: The Story of Nick Steen Gullings, Head Chef & Owner of Walkers
Mar 24, 2025

Mike Nelson on Elevating Hospitality, Catalytic Downtown Investment, & Developing the Future Workforce
Mar 17, 2025
About the Vault
The Vault at 201 N Broadway is the official podcast of Big Sky Economic Development in Billings, Montana’s City!
We interview community leaders, small business owners, entrepreneurs, and resource partners here in Montana to share their stories, expertise, industry insights, and strategies.
Learn how to better start, manage, and grow your business and your leadership. Tangible takeaways to save you time and improve whatever it is that you’re working on.
We record in a historic monster vault at 201 N Broadway. Our Podcast Studio is available for fellow podcasters and content creators to use, click here to learn more (go to “The Vault”)!
Meet the Co-Creators & Co-Hosts of the Vault

Marcell Bruski
Marcell Bruski is the Senior Director of Engagement at Big Sky Economic Development where she leads strategic direction for the marketing, communication, and branding of BSED. She manages marketing campaigns, organizational events, and programs from conception through completion. On the other hand, Marcell oversees BillingsWorks, BSED’s workforce development program. She works to advance talent attraction & retention resources for local recruiters and employers, and sustain partnerships and alignment with education and industry to build a strong workforce for tomorrow. Marcell always lends a helping hand where she can and leads with determination and confidence to get the job done.

Kayla Vokral
Kayla Vokral is the SBDC Business Advisor/Training Manager at Big Sky Economic Development where she helps small businesses and entrepreneurs find solutions to their most pressing problems. She knows what businesses need and is quick to jump on any opportunity that will be beneficial to them, whether that’s through trainings she coordinates, one-on-one counseling she gives, or grants and funding opportunities she promotes. With her background in business ownership, management, and advising, Kayla has seen a wide variety of peaks and valleys and how to navigate them. She lives by her “give first” mentality and is always willing to share small business successes and lessons learned to help inspire and educate other entrepreneurs, small business owners, and business leaders.